Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 15, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Apple Intelligence and Software Updates

Apple Intelligence has been approved by Chinese regulators, enabling its launch on iPhones in the country for the first time. The public beta of iOS 27 is now available, offering users a preview of new features including Siri AI and other Apple Intelligence enhancements. iPad OS 27 and mac OS 27 Golden Gate public betas have also been released, with version 2 updates for beta testers. watch OS 27 public beta is also live, featuring Siri AI and improved Apple Watch capabilities. Apple is also preparing for the release of iOS 26.6, which will include a warning for malicious iMessages according to a mockup.

Hardware and Accessory News

The OLED iPad mini is still expected to launch before the end of 2026, potentially featuring an 8.4-inch 60Hz display panel. Retailers are offering discounts on Apple products, with Amazon providing up to $130 off Apple Watch Series 11 models at $184 and $150 off select M5 MacBook Air models according to Mac Rumors. Nomad is holding an anniversary sale with up to 30% off sitewide on various accessories. Satechi has released color-matching accessories for the MacBook Neo, including a hub and mouse. Twelve South has introduced the Power Bug, a Mag Safe accessory designed to eliminate charging cables at home clearing counters.

Security and Legal Matters

A new mac OS malware called Crash Stealer is impersonating an Apple tool to steal Mac passwords and cryptocurrency. Apple has won a discovery fight in its antitrust case against the DOJ, gaining access to documents from 14 federal agencies as part of its defense. A judge has dismissed a lawsuit accusing Apple of failing to prevent child sexual abuse material on iCloud according to Reuters. In Brazil, Apple faces new questions regarding betting apps accessible to minors, with officials giving the company five business days to provide additional details about its practices.

Promotions and Financing

Apple's annual Back to School promotion has gone live in select countries, including China, India, and Malaysia. The company has also updated its website with a list of products eligible for upcoming sales tax holidays in 10 U.S. states including Alabama. Apple's new 36-month financing plan for cellular iPads is available, though potential savings elsewhere should be considered according to Apple Insider. T-Mobile and Verizon financing for iPhones purchased from Apple will soon result in carrier-locked devices, ending a workaround for purchasing unlocked iPhones on payment plans as previously possible.

Apple TV+ and Content

Apple TV+ has announced the return of Major League Soccer following the 2026 FIFA World Cup tomorrow. The service also shared a first look at season two of the German dark comedy 'Where's Wanda?' confirming return. A new limited series, 'Lucky,' starring Anya Taylor-Joy, has premiered on Apple TV+. Additionally, the first trailer for the action-comedy 'Mayday,' starring Ryan Reynolds, has been released. WordPress has launched a new Apple TV app, WordPress TV, offering video content on the platform.

Industry and Market Trends

Apple's stock has rallied 15% to record territory as investors show caution regarding AI spending. The company is reportedly looking to acquire AI chip companies to reduce its reliance on Nvidia for AI workloads according to The Information. Prism ML has confirmed talks with Apple regarding its AI model-shrinking technology, and has released its Bonsai 27B model, claiming it's the first major AI model of its size suitable for iPhones as reported by CNBC. Apple Intelligence has been cleared for launch in China by regulators.

Other Product and Service News

Apple Care+ for Macs and iPads is increasing in price for some subscription plans. Apple has shared a new Advertising Services policy that will disallow certain ad categories in the Maps app outlining the restrictions. The European Commission has adopted new exemptions to its Batteries Regulation, which will no longer require battery removal for Apple Watch and Air Pods as previously mandated. WhatsApp is developing an alternative to iCloud for chat backups on iPhone. The company is also reportedly looking to acquire Sig Scalr, the maker of Sig Lens, to enhance its capabilities in monitoring and debugging large applications.

Competitor and Third-Party News

One Plus is reportedly exiting the US and European smartphone markets as part of a restructuring at parent company Oppo according to Bloomberg. Opera has seen significant growth in active users for its iOS browser in the UK and US during Q2 2026. Suno now allows iPhone users to generate songs directly within the Messages app using text or voice prompts starting today. LEGO is considering a Bondi Blue iMac G3 set for its "Ideas" platform. OpenAI's first hardware product is expected to be a portable smart speaker without a display reports Bloomberg.

Madden and Gaming

Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition is returning to Mac for the first time in 19 years, marking the largest football release in Apple Arcade history. The game is scheduled to launch in August as announced.

OpenAI Lawsuits and Hardware

Apple's former VP of product design, Tang Tan, is at the center of two trade secret theft lawsuits against OpenAI. OpenAI blames an email mix-up for its lack of response to Apple's trade secret theft claims, stating the issue was a lack of attention to the complaints. Despite facing lawsuits, OpenAI's hardware timeline remains unchanged, with plans to unveil its first product this year and release it in 2027 according to Bloomberg. OpenAI's first AI device may compete with AirPods Ultra.