Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Software Updates and AI Integration

Apple has released the iOS 27 public beta, introducing significant new Siri and Apple Intelligence features. The update also brings an all-new app to the iPhone's Home Screen and makes the Auto Mix feature in Apple Music even better with enhancements. The mac OS 27 Golden Gate public beta is also available for testing, offering users early access to the new Mac operating system before its official fall release with ten features to try. Public beta testers can now also try new Air Pods beta firmware, with build number 9A5314b available for Air Pods Pro 2 and Air Pods Pro 3 as part of the beta program.

Productivity and Device Features

Apple is implementing a change that will lock carrier-financed iPhones to their respective carriers, ending a loophole that allowed customers to purchase unlocked iPhones on payment plans with T-Mobile and Verizon. Apple Care+ for Macs and iPads has seen a price increase on some subscription plans, though Apple Care One is presented as an even better value in comparison. Apple has also updated its website with a list of products eligible for upcoming sales tax holidays in 10 U.S. states, offering potential savings for consumers.

Hardware Rumors and Development

Reports suggest Apple has ramped up orders for vapor chamber cooling components, which are reportedly destined for its upcoming foldable iPhone and 20th-anniversary iPhone models. These future iPhones are expected to feature an all-glass design, with supply chain facilities reportedly completing renovations ahead of production for the "iPhone 20" as per a leaker. In other hardware news, Apple is reportedly looking to acquire AI chip companies to reduce its reliance on Nvidia for demanding AI workloads according to The Information.

Promotions and Retail

Apple's annual Back to School promotion has gone live in select countries across Asia, including China, India, and Malaysia. While Apple's Back to School deals are now available, other resellers are offering significantly greater discounts. In the U.S. and Canada, Apple has added the iPad mini with the A17 Pro chip to its refurbished store, offering these devices at a discount for refurbished purchases.

Legal and Regulatory Matters

Apple has won a discovery fight concerning federal agency documents in its Department of Justice antitrust case, with a specially appointed judge siding with the company in its bid to obtain documents. The European Commission has adopted new exemptions to its Batteries Regulation, which means Apple Watch and Air Pods will no longer require battery removal. Apple has also been given five business days by Brazilian officials to provide additional details about its App Store policies in response to questions regarding betting apps accessible to minors in the country.

Industry and Competition

Apple has shared a new Advertising Services policy that outlines prohibited ad categories within the Maps app, aiming to curb certain types of advertising. Meanwhile, the European Commission has formally ordered Google to grant third-party AI services the same access to Android device features as its own Gemini app in a competitive move. In the smart home sector, the Matter standard, despite its promise of unifying smart home devices, has fallen short of saving users from complexity in some Apple Home setups according to reports.

Content and Entertainment

Apple TV has announced the return of Major League Soccer to its streaming service tomorrow, following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. The streaming service also revealed the first look and return date for season two of the German dark comedy 'Where's Wanda?' on the platform. Additionally, the first episodes of Apple TV's new limited series 'Lucky,' starring Anya Taylor-Joy, are now streaming on the service.

Third-Party Integrations and Deals

The popular password management app 1Password has added Claude support, allowing the AI service to access stored credentials for collaborative tasks. WhatsApp for Android is rolling out sizable updates, including homescreen widgets and the ability to share to WhatsApp from Apple Music in the latest version. Deals this week include Air Pods with ANC for $119, Air Pods Pro, and MacBook Pro models with discounts up to $400.

Chip Manufacturing and Supply Chain

Apple chip supplier TSMC has announced a $100 billion increase to its U.S. chip investment, bringing its total commitment to $265 billion as part of its expansion. This investment is part of a broader trend of increased semiconductor manufacturing in the United States.

AI and Software Developments

Prism ML has confirmed it is in talks with Apple regarding its AI model-shrinking technology, which is reportedly suitable for iPhones. The company has also released its Bonsai 27B model, which it claims is the first major AI model of its size that can run on iPhones according to the CEO. Apple Intelligence has also been approved by Chinese regulators, paving the way for its launch on iPhones in the country.

App and Service Updates

Roblox is integrating AI game creation directly into its mobile app, enabling users to more easily turn written ideas into playable experiences without needing Roblox Studio. WhatsApp is developing an alternative to iCloud for chat backups on iPhone, offering users a first-party cloud storage option for the first time according to WABeta Info. Opera has reported significant growth in its iOS browser, with monthly active users increasing by 93% in the UK and 50% in the US during Q2 2026 compared to the previous year.

Legal Disputes and Investigations

A proposed class action lawsuit is seeking a payout related to Apple's Hide My Email flaw, without alleging that the vulnerability was actually used in an attack. Apple has also defeated a proposed class-action lawsuit accusing it of failing to stop child sexual abuse material from being stored and shared through iCloud according to Reuters. The company is also facing new questions from Brazil regarding betting apps accessible to minors, and has been given five business days to provide additional details on the matter.

Hardware and Accessory News

Apple has added the Apple Watch Series 11 with up to $130 off, alongside discounts on Air Pods Pro 3 and M5 MacBook Air models. Nomad is celebrating its anniversary with up to 30% off sitewide, featuring deals on accessories like Mag Safe stands and Apple Watch bands during the sale. Satechi has released new color-matched MacBook Neo accessories designed to add ports and extra functionality to the popular entry-level laptop for enhanced usability.

Gaming and Entertainment

Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition is returning to Mac for the first time in 19 years, launching on Apple Arcade in August. Apple TV has announced the return of its Peabody and Emmy Award-winning mindfulness series Stillwater for its fifth season with a set release date. The streaming service has also released the first trailer for 'Mayday,' an action-comedy starring Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh in a new project.

Market Performance and Strategy

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 in a market that shrank overall. In a separate market development, One Plus is reportedly exiting the U.S. and European smartphone markets as part of a broader restructuring at its parent company Oppo as reported by Bloomberg.

Smart Home and Connectivity

An online safety regulator has stated that tech giants, including Apple, need to do more to combat sextortion as a growing concern. Apple's 2026 smart home lineup is expected to include a new Apple TV, Home Pod, and Home Hub, with Siri AI ready to launch in iOS, iPad OS, and mac OS as part of the rollout.

Legal and Antitrust Developments

Apple has responded to Epic's opposition to its request to pause lower-court proceedings over App Store commissions, arguing that Epic's arguments are "wrong". Separately, OpenAI is reportedly blaming an email mix-up for its failure to respond to Apple's trade secret theft claims, stating that the problem was a lack of attention to specific emails as the cause.

Accessories and Peripherals

Amazon is taking $150 off multiple models of the M5 MacBook Air, marking a significant discount on these popular laptops for consumers. Deals also include Air Pods 4 models for $99.00, and Air Pods Pro 3 with a $50 price drop. A programmable macro keypad has become an indispensable productivity tool for some Mac users, allowing them to offload keyboard shortcuts for increased efficiency in their workflow.