Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 11, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

iOS 27 and Software Updates

Apple's upcoming iOS 27 is bringing significant upgrades to its Mail app, focusing on improved search functionality and new AI features. Beyond Mail, iOS 27 is also set to overhaul the Messages experience with substantial under-the-hood changes. The update will also introduce over eight new Car Play features designed to enhance the in-car experience, and transform iPhones and Air Pods into fitness trackers similar to the Apple Watch through Gym Kit integration. Developers are also seeing new age rating questions for apps with social media features in App Store Connect. Beta 3 of iOS 27 has been released, alongside discussions of Siri AI on Apple Watch and features for mac OS Golden Gate. Apple has also stopped signing older iOS versions for several legacy devices, including the iPhone 5c and iPad Mini.

Hardware Rumors and Product Lifespans

Rumors continue to swirl around Apple's future hardware, with whispers of an "iPhone Ultra" and its potential availability not quite clear on when. The M1 MacBook Air is reportedly achieving the longest usable lifespan of any Apple laptop in history. Component costs for the iPhone 18 Pro Max could increase by nearly $300 compared to the previous model. Apple is reportedly considering a deal with Intel for chip production, which may have played a role in securing a 100% tariff exemption from President Trump. The iPhone Fold's battery capacity is rumored to be less than expected, and Apple has also significantly lowered its demand forecasts for the standard iPhone 17 due to rising hardware costs. Apple is exploring technology from Prism ML to run larger AI models directly on iPhones.

Deals, Accessories, and Storage Solutions

This weekend's deals include discounts on Air Pods, Apple Watch Ultra 3 models, Mag Safe chargers, and Magic Mouse. Additional offers feature Air Pods at nearly 25% off and an M5 MacBook Air with a $150 discount. A San Disk Phone Drive for iPhone is presented as a solution for low storage. LG's 32-inch Ultra Fine evo 6K Thunderbolt 5 monitor is available for $700 off, making it cheaper than the Apple Studio Display. A Thunderbolt 5 dock from iVANKY is designed for Mac workflows. Amazon is hosting a large accessory sale featuring deals on Sonos, Sony, and Anker products.

Apple TV and Content

Apple TV has announced the August schedule for "Friday Night Baseball". The service is also taking over Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con for the first time, hosting a two-hour panel and previewing upcoming shows like "Widow's Bay" and "Silo". Apple TV has also released the first trailer for "There’s No Place Like Home, Snoopy". Netflix is reportedly considering live TV and bundles to boost engagement, with potential integration into the Apple TV app.

AI and Smart Home

Apple Watch accounts for approximately 90% of all shipments for smartwatches capable of Edge AI in the first quarter of 2026, according to Counterpoint Research. The U.S. is easing restrictions on Apple's access to AI chips and data center equipment in the UAE, allowing eight companies to import advanced technology without individual export licenses. Meta has removed a feature that allowed users to generate AI images from public Instagram posts. Duck Duck Go's browser now blocks most YouTube ads on iPhone and Mac by default. In the smart home sector, the LNDU HK01W lock is highlighted for bringing Apple Home Key and Wi-Fi support at a budget-friendly price.

App Store and Social Media

Apple is adding new questions to its App Store Connect age rating questionnaire specifically for apps that include social media features. In other app news, "Route," an all-in-one social app for Pokémon collectors, is featured in an indie app spotlight. Netflix is reportedly showing interest in acquiring Letterboxd, a popular movie tracking and social media app. Spotify has introduced updates to its Release Radar, providing users with new listening filters for more customizable music recommendations.

Retail and Financials

Two Apple retail stores in the U.S. are set to relocate to new, nearby locations later this month. Apple Card is celebrating its seventh anniversary, marking its first major change with its move to JP Morgan Chase. Apple supplier Luxshare's share listing set a new record before falling back. India is becoming more attractive for iPhone manufacturing due to import duty cuts on key smartphone components.

Other Tech and Industry News

The Mac Rumors Show discusses the potential end of the MacBook Pro line with the rumored arrival of a MacBook Ultra. Apple Watch is losing its Walkie-Talkie app in the watch OS 27 update, which will be replaced by a push-to-talk function. The security landscape is examined concerning passkeys and their intended impact on passwords. Anthropic is highlighting its Claude Code's in-app browser for desktop users. A lawsuit update indicates Apple will pay owners of certain iPhone models in relation to the "Siri AI" lawsuit settlement, which involved a $250 million agreement. The EU will not require iPhones sold within its borders to have removable battery doors in 2027.