Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Software Updates and Public Betas

Apple has released the public beta for iOS 27 and mac OS 27 Golden Gate, allowing users to test upcoming features. The iOS 27 public beta introduces a new notification system that breaks from a 15-year-old design, and users can learn how to install it on their iPhones. mac OS 27 Golden Gate public beta is also available, with 10 features to try first, including updates to Siri. iPad OS 27 and mac OS 27 beta 3 have received version 2 updates for developer testers. watch OS 27 public beta is also live, featuring Siri AI and smarter Apple Watch capabilities. Apple has also seeded the fifth developer betas for iOS 26.6 and mac OS 26.6, along with the fifth beta for mac OS Tahoe 26.6, watch OS 26.6, tv OS 26.6, and vision OS 26.6 for developers.

New Features and Product Announcements

The latest Air Pods public beta includes a long-requested feature, while the mac OS 27 Golden Gate public beta is available for testing before the official fall release. Apple is preparing for a 2026 smart home lineup, potentially including a new Apple TV, Home Pod, and Home Hub, especially with Siri AI ready to launch across its operating systems. Apple TV is highlighting the return of Major League Soccer with new guides and playlists, and has also shared a first look at season two of ‘Where’s Wanda?’ and the trailer for the Ryan Reynolds action-comedy ‘Mayday.’ WordPress has launched a new Apple TV app with thousands of free videos.

Pricing and Financing Updates

Apple Care+ for Macs and iPads is increasing in price for some subscription plans. New 36-month cellular iPad financing plans are available, but users are advised to explore other options for potential savings. Apple is also participating in upcoming sales tax holidays in 10 U.S. states, listing eligible products on its website. Deals are available on various Apple products, including up to $130 off Apple Watch Series, discounts on Air Pods Pro 3 and Air Pods, and M5 MacBook Air models with Amazon offering a $150 discount.

Legal and Regulatory Matters

Apple has faced new questions from Brazil regarding betting apps accessible to minors. The company has also won a discovery fight in its DOJ antitrust case, allowing it to obtain documents from 14 federal agencies. In a separate legal battle, a judge has dismissed a lawsuit accusing Apple of failing to stop child sexual abuse material on iCloud. Separately, Meta is challenging Apple's plan for EU-mandated third-party device interoperability. OpenAI is reportedly blaming an email mix-up for its failure to respond to Apple's trade secret theft claims, though the company's hardware timeline remains unchanged despite the lawsuit.

Apple Intelligence and AI Developments

Apple Intelligence has received approval from Chinese regulators, paving the way for its launch in the country. The company is reportedly looking to acquire AI chip companies to reduce its dependence on Nvidia for AI workloads. Prism ML has confirmed it is in talks with Apple about its AI model-shrinking technology, and has released its Bonsai 27B model, claiming it's the first major AI model of its size fit for iPhone. Apple is also holding an online session for product managers and engineering leads on implementing Siri AI features in their apps for iOS.

Product Strategy and Market Performance

Apple grew iPhone shipments in China by 24.4 percent year over year in the second quarter of 2026, making it the fastest-growing smartphone brand despite an overall market decline, with iPhone 17 pricing cited as a factor. Apple stock has rallied 15 percent, returning to record territory as investors favor AI caution and welcome price increases. The company is also reportedly in talks with the White House about using Intel chips amid tariff negotiations.

Third-Party Accessories and Integrations

Satechi is offering accessories for MacBook Neo owners to add ports, including a hub and mouse. Nomad is celebrating its anniversary with up to 30 percent off sitewide, including Mag Safe stands. Twelve South has introduced the Power Bug to eliminate the need for a charging cable with Mag Safe. Opera has seen significant growth in its iOS browser user base in the UK and US. WhatsApp is developing an alternative to iCloud for chat backups on iPhone. Canva has unveiled Canva Code 2.0, an AI-powered platform for building and editing websites.

Potential Future Products and Rumors

An OLED iPad mini may still launch before the end of 2026, with rumors suggesting it will use an 8.4-inch 60Hz display panel. The upcoming "iPhone 20" is rumored to feature an all-glass design, with supply chain facilities reportedly ready for production. Apple Watch Series 12 is expected to include four new rumored features this fall.

Industry News and Partnerships

Apple has acquired Sig Scalr, the maker of Sig Lens, to enhance its tools for monitoring and debugging large applications. In a legal dispute, Apple maintains that Epic's arguments against pausing their case are "wrong." The European Commission has adopted new exemptions to its Batteries Regulation, impacting Apple Watch and Air Pods.

Other Notable Updates

Apple has shared a new Advertising Services policy outlining prohibited ad categories in the Maps app. LEGO is considering a Bondi Blue iMac G3 set. A new Mac app called What Cable helps users understand the capabilities of their USB-C cables. The Laser Pecker LX2 laser cutter is reviewed, and the Smart Home Insider podcast discusses the Matter standard and reviews the Channel Master Floodlight Pro. Suno now allows iPhone users to generate songs directly in iMessage.