Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

Apple's Financial Landscape and Market Position

Apple has reclaimed the title of the world's most valuable publicly traded company, surpassing Nvidia in market valuation. This surge in value comes as the company has been across several countries for its iCloud+ subscriptions, following similar hikes for hardware in the US and Japan. In Japan, specifically, contributing to a shifting financial strategy. The company's commitment to domestic manufacturing is further underscored by its chip supplier, TSMC, which has to its US chip investment, bringing the total commitment to $265 billion.

iOS 27 and Software Updates

The public beta for, allowing users to test new features, including significant changes to the Home Screen and Siri AI capabilities released this week. For those who have installed the beta and encountered issues, a guide on to iOS 26 is provided. The new iOS version also introduces an updated Recovery Assistant, which no longer requires a Mac or PC to boot into if an iPhone malfunctions. Users can also explore new Car Play upgrades within the iOS 27 public beta. Furthermore, mac OS 27 Golden Gate public beta has been released, offering early access to the upcoming Mac operating system.

Productivity and Accessory Updates

Apple's commitment to user experience extends to its accessories and services. color-matched accessories for the MacBook Neo are now available from Satechi, adding ports and enhanced functionality. For Mac users seeking to boost productivity, a dedicated macro keypad has been highlighted as a valuable tool. In the realm of audio, a long-requested feature has been added to AirPods in a new public beta. Apple's Journal app is being promoted as a tool for, aligning reflective writing with psychological research.

App Store and Legal Developments

Concerns have been raised regarding the App Store, with an investigation revealing in Brazil that pose as simple games and utilities. In a separate matter, San Francisco City Attorney has 13 AI "face-swap" apps capable of generating nonconsensual nude images. Apple is also facing scrutiny in Brazil over betting apps accessible to minors, with officials seeking. On the legal front, Apple and the US Justice Department are reportedly in early discussions about a potential early settlement for a 2024 antitrust suit. A specially appointed judge has sided with Apple in its discovery fight to obtain federal agency documents as part of its defense against the DOJ's antitrust lawsuit. Separately, a proposed class action lawsuit seeks a payout related to Apple's Hide My Email feature without alleging any attacks or evidence of harm.

AI and Third-Party Integrations

Apple's relationship with AI developers is complex, with the company suing OpenAI over alleged trade secret theft, though OpenAI attributes the lack of response to an email mix-up. Apple Intelligence has received approval from Chinese regulators, paving the way for its launch in the country. In a move to enhance AI capabilities, 1Password has, allowing the AI service to access credentials securely. Meanwhile, the EU has ordered Google to provide rival AI apps with the same Android access as its own Gemini. The development of AI-generated Roblox games on iPhone is also becoming easier.

Apple TV+ and Content Releases

Apple TV+ is expanding its content library with the release of the first trailer for the docuseries '', set to debut next month. The service has also announced the return of Major League Soccer following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, accompanied by new Apple Maps guides and Apple Music playlists. Additionally, Apple TV has revealed a first look and the return date for season two of the German dark comedy ''.

Hardware and Pricing Updates

Apple has increased the price of iCloud+ subscriptions in several countries, following recent hardware price hikes in the US and Japan. In Japan. The company's annual Back to School promotion has commenced in select Asian countries, including China and India, though some resellers are offering better discounts than Apple's own offers. Apple Care+ subscription plans for Macs and iPads have also, making the Apple Care One bundle a more attractive value proposition. Amazon is offering significant discounts on Apple products, including up to $500 off the 2026 MacBook Pro and a $200 discount on the 512GB M4 iPad Air. Refurbished iPad mini models with the A17 Pro chip are now available at a discount in the US and Canada.

Future Product Rumors and Speculation

the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are anticipated to launch in two months, with. Rumors also suggest Apple is ramping up orders for vapor chamber cooling components for its upcoming foldable iPhone and 20th-anniversary iPhone models. The highly anticipated Apple Watch Series 12 is rumored to include. The entry-level iPad, initially expected this year, may no longer be launching in 2026 according to recent reports. Apple's 2026 smart home lineup is expected to feature a new Apple TV, Home Pod, and Home Hub.

Platform Loyalty and Market Trends

iPhone loyalty remains strong, with a recent report indicating an for the first quarter of 2026, showing a slowdown in users switching to Android. This trend is further supported by data indicating that Google is making to its Android platform. In other market news, One Plus is reportedly exiting the US and European smartphone markets as part of a restructuring.

Car Keys and Connectivity

Apple's Car Key feature is expected to expand its compatibility, with. This integration allows for secure vehicle access through the iPhone's Wallet app.

Other Notable Updates

WhatsApp is rolling out a new username feature, allowing users to. The app has also begun activating in-call controls for Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum on iPhone. The European Commission has adopted new exemptions to its Batteries Regulation for Apple Watch and Air Pods.