Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Software Updates and Features

Apple is reportedly gearing up to release the first public betas of iOS 27 and mac OS Golden Gate this week public betas. iOS 27 is set to bring significant enhancements to the Mail app, including improved search functionality and new AI-driven features Mail app. The Messages app is also receiving a revamped experience under the hood in iOS, with many under-the-surface improvements. The Apple Watch will see changes with watch OS, including the removal of the Walkie-Talkie app in favor of a new push-to-talk functionality. Furthermore, iPad OS 27 is still in need of simpler multitasking, with suggestions for improvements to the windowing system.

Apple Hardware and Chip Development

The M6 era of Apple chips is rumored to be short-lived, lasting only six months before Apple transitions to an AI-focused M7 processor M6 era. The development of these advanced M7 and M8 chips is reportedly rooted in Apple's extensive research for the Apple Car project, promising to boost artificial intelligence performance. In a move that could impact future hardware, the European Union's regulations may necessitate an Apple Pencil upgrade in early 2027 to feature more easily replaceable batteries. Meanwhile, component costs for the iPhone 18 Pro Max are projected to rise by nearly $300 compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Apple's Business and Retail

Apple has acquired Sig Scalr, the developer of Sig Lens, a tool designed for monitoring and debugging large-scale applications and services. The company is also expanding its retail footprint, with two U.S. Apple Stores set to relocate shortly. Apple is also broadening the use of its "Tap to Pay on iPhone" system, which allows merchants to accept contactless payments directly on their iPhones. In a notable development, Apple may have secured a 100% tariff exemption on semiconductors due to a deal to contract Intel for chip production. The U.S. has also eased restrictions on Apple's access to AI chips and data center equipment in the UAE, allowing eight U.S. companies to import controlled technology without individual export licenses eased restrictions.

Deals and Product Availability

Several Apple products are currently available at discounted prices. The Apple Watch Series 11 has dropped to $299 on Amazon, offering a $100 saving. Air Pods Pro 3 are also on sale for $199.99, marking their best price since Prime Day. Additional deals include savings on Air Pods 4 at nearly 25% off and an M5 MacBook Air for $150 off. The M5 MacBook Pro is available with a $450 discount, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3 has a $99 price reduction.

Industry Trends and Competitors

The European Union is reportedly planning to ban children under 13 from using social media applications, with a phased approach for older teenagers. In the AI space, Meta has removed a feature that allowed users to generate AI images from public Instagram posts. OpenAI is discontinuing its dedicated web browser, Chat GPT Atlas, shifting its focus away from standalone browser development. In the smartwatch market, Apple Watch accounts for a dominant 90% of AI-capable smartwatch shipments in the first quarter of 2026 according to Counterpoint Research.

Accessory and Utility Tools

For Mac users seeking to understand their USB-C cables, the free app What Cable provides detailed information on the capabilities of each cable. To address iPhone storage concerns, the SANDISK Phone Drive offers a solution for expanding storage capacity. In smart home technology, the LNDU HK01W lock integrates Apple Home Key and Wi-Fi support at a budget-friendly price point.