Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 12, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

iPhone and iPad Rumors and Updates

The potential "iPhone Ultra" is still surrounded by speculation as Apple's annual event nears, with uncertainties regarding its release timing and production volume. Component costs for the iPhone 18 Pro Max could increase by nearly $300 over the iPhone 17 Pro. Apple has reportedly lowered its demand forecasts for the standard iPhone 17 due to rising hardware expenses. There are also conflicting reports about the iPhone Fold's battery capacity, with some suggesting it might be less than anticipated. In some regions, Apple may be able to contract Intel for chip production, a move that could have influenced tariff exemptions on semiconductors. Despite online claims, iPhones sold in the EU will not feature easily removable back panels for battery replacement in 2027. Meanwhile, Apple has stopped signing older iOS versions for devices like the iPhone 5c and iPad Mini, preventing users from reinstalling or downgrading to those versions.

iOS 27 and Software Features

iOS 27 is set to bring significant updates to the Mail app, with enhanced search capabilities and new AI features. The Messages app is also getting a revamped experience under the hood, despite initial appearances suggesting minimal changes. For fitness enthusiasts, iOS 27 will integrate Gym Kit functionality into iPhones and Air Pods, allowing them to interact with compatible gym equipment like an Apple Watch. Car Play will also benefit from numerous improvements in iOS, introducing several new features to enhance the in-car experience. While some users might miss the Walkie-Talkie app, it will be removed in the upcoming watch OS 27 update, replaced by a push-to-talk function. iPad OS is receiving updates to its multitasking features, building on last year's introduction of windowing capabilities.

Apple at Home and in the Car

The LNDU HK01W smart lock introduces Apple Home Key and Wi-Fi support at a budget-friendly price point, offering convenient access for Apple smart home users. Despite the advancements in smart home technology, some users find that traditional "dumb" switches can sometimes be the more practical choice. For those looking to expand their Mac setup, LG's 32-inch Ultra Fine evo 6K Thunderbolt 5 monitor offers 6K resolution and easy Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, priced significantly lower than Apple's Studio Display. The iVANKY Fusion Dock Ultra is a Thunderbolt 5 dock designed to support Mac workflows, joining a crowded market of docking stations.

Apple TV+ and Content

Apple TV+ is making a significant presence at San Diego Comic-Con, taking over Hall H for the first time to preview shows like "Widow's Bay" and "Silo". The service will also host a two-hour panel and offer a first look at upcoming content. The August schedule for "Friday Night Baseball" on Apple TV has been announced. Additionally, Apple TV+ has released the first trailer for "There’s No Place Like Home, Snoopy". Netflix is reportedly exploring live TV and bundles to boost engagement, with the article noting integration with the Apple TV app is readily available.

Apple Watch and Wearables

Apple Watch dominated the Edge AI-capable smartwatch market in the first quarter of 2026, accounting for approximately 90% of all shipments. The upcoming watch OS 27 update will see the removal of the Walkie-Talkie app, transitioning to a push-to-talk functionality.

Apple at Work and Business

The M1 MacBook Air is noted for having the longest usable lifespan of any Apple laptop to date. Apple is among eight U.S. companies now permitted to bring advanced-computing chips and servers into the UAE without individual export licenses, easing restrictions on AI chip and data center equipment access. Apple Card is celebrating its seventh anniversary, with its move to JP Morgan Chase marking its first major change. Luxshare, a significant Apple supplier founded by a former assembly-line worker, has seen a remarkable growth trajectory. India is becoming a more attractive location for iPhone manufacturing due to import duty reductions on key smartphone components.

Deals and Discounts

This week offers several discounts on Apple products, including $99 off the Apple Watch Ultra, $150 off the M5 MacBook Air, and $450 off the M5 Pro MacBook Pro. Air Pods Pro 3 are available at their lowest price since Prime Day, with nearly $50 off. Additional deals include Air Pods 4 at nearly 25% off and various Anker accessories. The M5 Pro MacBook Pro is still available at its pre-price-hike cost, though this offer is expected to be temporary.

App Store and Developer News

Apple has updated App Store Connect to include new age rating questions for apps featuring social media functionalities. In indie app news, "Route 25" is highlighted as an all-in-one social app for Pokémon collectors. Meta has removed a feature that allowed users to generate AI images from public Instagram posts. OpenAI is discontinuing its standalone web browser, ChatGPT Atlas. Anthropic is introducing a "Reflect" feature for Claude, similar to Spotify Wrapped, to track user engagement. Spotify has updated Release Radar with new listening filters for more customizable music recommendations. Strava has launched an Events tab for discovering races and group runs. TV Time users can now migrate their data to Just Watch before the former's shutdown next week.

Security and Storage

The San Disk Phone Drive offers a solution for managing low storage on iPhones. Passkeys were intended to replace passwords, but the transition has not been as swift as anticipated. A lawsuit settlement may result in Apple paying owners of specific iPhone models related to Siri AI.

Retail and Other Apple News

Two Apple retail stores in the U.S. are scheduled to relocate to new, nearby locations later this month. Crimes involving Apple devices include a stolen iPad leading to an arrest and dozens of iPads stolen from an elementary school.