Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

iOS 27 and Software Updates

Apple is gearing up to release the first public betas of iOS, mac OS Golden Gate, and other operating systems this week public betas. iOS 27 is set to bring significant enhancements to the Mail app, including improved search functionality and new AI features Mail app. The Messages app is also receiving a revamp in iOS, with under-the-hood improvements that aim to completely transform the user experience. Additionally, iOS 27 will effectively turn your iPhone and Air Pods into an Apple Watch for gym use, integrating with the Gym Kit feature to share fitness data with compatible equipment. The iPad OS 27 experience is still in need of simpler multitasking, with a desire for features that make the iPad more Mac-like than ever iPad OS 27.

Apple Watch and Wearables

The Apple Watch is dominating the AI smartwatch market, accounting for approximately 90% of all Edge AI-capable smartwatch shipments in the first quarter of 2026, according to Counterpoint Research 90% of shipments. In a notable deal, the 42mm Apple Watch Series 11 is available for $299 on Amazon, a $100 discount off its regular price, with similar sales on larger and premium models. The watch OS 27 software update will see the removal of the Walkie-Talkie app, a feature some users may miss losing Walkie-Talkie. For smart home enthusiasts, the LNDU HK01W lock offers Apple Home Key support and Wi-Fi connectivity at a budget-friendly price.

iPhone and Future Devices

Component costs for the iPhone 18 Pro Max are projected to increase by nearly $300 compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Apple has reportedly lowered its demand forecasts for the standard iPhone 17 due to rising hardware expenses. Rumors continue to swirl regarding the iPhone Fold, with conflicting reports about its launch timeline and battery capacity, which may be less than initially expected. Despite some speculation, iPhones sold in the European Union will not feature a removable back panel for battery replacement in 2027 no removable battery. The iPhone 17 Pro Max recently underwent an extreme test, being buried underground for an extended period to assess its durability in the absence of cell service for an estimated 250 years.

Apple Silicon and Performance

The M6 era of Apple's silicon is expected to be short-lived, lasting only about six months as the company reportedly pivots to an AI-focused M7 chip M6 era. The advanced AI performance expected in the M7 and M8 processors is said to be a direct result of Apple's research into the Apple Car project. The M7 Ultra chip is rumored to feature up to 1.5TB of RAM, potentially matching the memory capacity of the 2019 Mac Pro. In other chip news, Apple may have secured an exemption from 100% semiconductor tariffs by agreeing to contract Intel for chip production. Meanwhile, the M1 MacBook Air is noted for having the longest usable lifespan of any Apple laptop to date.

Deals and Retail

Several Apple products are currently available at discounted prices. The Air Pods Pro 3 have hit their best price since Prime Day at $199.99 AirPods Pro. Other deals include the Apple Watch Ultra 3 with a $140 discount, the M5 MacBook Air with a $150 price cut, and the M5 Pro MacBook Pro with a $450 reduction. Additionally, the 42mm Apple Watch Series 11 is on sale for $299, offering a $100 saving. Apple Stores are also expanding their use of the "Tap to Pay on iPhone" feature, allowing merchants to accept contactless payments directly on their iPhones. Two Apple retail stores in the U.S. are scheduled to relocate to new, nearby locations later this month.

Industry and Ecosystem

Apple is among eight U.S. companies now permitted to bring advanced-computing chips, servers, and other controlled technology into the UAE without requiring individual export licenses, easing restrictions on AI chip and data center equipment access UAE access. EU regulations may necessitate an upgrade to Apple Pencil models with more easily replaceable batteries in early 2027, coinciding with the expected release of the iPad Pro with M6. In the realm of social media and apps, Meta has removed a feature that allowed users to generate AI images from public Instagram posts. Spotify has introduced new listening filters to make its Release Radar feature more customizable. Letterboxd, the movie tracking and social media app, is reportedly exploring a sale, with Netflix among the interested parties Letterboxd sale. The Apple Card is celebrating its seventh anniversary, with its recent move to JP Morgan Chase marking a significant change in its operational structure.

Storage and Accessories

The SANDISK Phone Drive for iPhone is highlighted as a useful solution for addressing low storage capacity on iPhones. In the world of accessories, Air Pods are on sale with a nearly 25% discount. For those looking to enhance their Mac setup, LG's 32-inch Ultra Fine evo 6K Thunderbolt 5 monitor is available for $700 off, making it cheaper than the Apple Studio Display.

Security and Passkeys

Passkeys were anticipated to largely replace traditional passwords by now, but their widespread adoption and impact are still evolving Passkeys adoption. In a separate security incident, a stolen iPad was linked to the arrest of an accused bank robber, and dozens of iPads were reported stolen from an elementary school.