Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Apple's Market Dominance and iPhone Loyalty

Apple has reclaimed its title as the world's most valuable company, surpassing Nvidia in market capitalization. This resurgence coincides with a notable increase in iPhone loyalty, with research indicating 87% of iPhone owners are choosing to stick with the platform, a figure higher than the previous year. This sustained customer retention highlights Apple's strong ecosystem and product appeal, even as the company faces increased scrutiny and regulatory pressure in various markets.

Software Updates and New Features

The public beta for iOS 27 and mac OS 27 Golden Gate is now available, offering users a glimpse into upcoming features. iOS 27 introduces significant changes, including a new app for the iPhone's Home Screen and a revamped Notification Center. The beta also showcases enhancements to CarPlay, with to explore. For Mac users, the mac OS 27 Golden Gate public beta is ready for testing ahead of its official fall release. Apple is also preparing for the launch of its AI system in China, with now approved by regulators.

Pricing Adjustments and Product Offerings

Apple has implemented price increases across several product categories and services. iPhone prices in Japan, following similar adjustments to Mac and iPad pricing globally. iCloud+ subscription have also seen an increase in multiple countries. In response to these higher costs, Apple has launched its annual in select Asian countries, offering deals on its products. However, resellers may even greater discounts on Apple devices. Meanwhile, deals are available on various Apple products, including and M5 MacBook Air models, with discounts of up to $400 and $150 respectively.

App Store and AI Developments

The App Store is facing increased scrutiny regarding its content and policies. A San Francisco City Attorney has demanded the removal of AI "face-swap" apps that can generate nonconsensual nude images. Additionally, an investigation in Brazil has uncovered on the App Store. In the realm of AI integration, 1Password has, allowing the AI service to access credentials securely. Separately, the European Commission has ordered Google to grant rival AI apps the same Android access as its own Gemini. OpenAI is also facing accusations of trade secret theft from Apple, with a former Apple VP at the center of the lawsuits.

Apple Ecosystem Expansions and Integrations

Apple's Car Keys feature is reportedly expanding to include TANK vehicles made by Chinese manufacturer Great Wall Motor. In software integrations, WhatsApp has begun rolling out its new and is activating reserved usernames for select iPhone users. The platform is also adding in-call controls for Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum on iPhone. On the Apple TV front, the service has released the first trailer for the docuseries ‘The Dynasty: UConn Huskies’ and announced the return of Major League Soccer following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Apple Music for Android is also receiving updates, including homescreen widgets.

Hardware and Accessory Updates

Apple has reportedly for its upcoming foldable iPhone and 20th-anniversary iPhone models. The company has also added refurbished iPad mini models with the A17 Pro chip to its U.S. and Canadian stores. In the accessory market, Satechi has launched new color-matched accessories for the MacBook Neo. Nomad is also celebrating its anniversary with sitewide.

Industry and Regulatory Landscape

Apple's chip supplier, TSMC, has for U.S. chip investments, bringing its total commitment to $265 billion. The EU has granted exemptions to its Batteries Regulation for Apple Watch and Air Pods. Apple is also reportedly in early discussions for a potential settlement of its 2024 antitrust lawsuit with the US Justice Department, a case that. In a separate development, Apple has closed a loophole that allowed T-Mobile and Verizon financed iPhones to be unlocked.

Further Software and Service Developments

Apple's Journal app is being highlighted for its potential to. The company has also updated its Advertising Services policy for the Maps app. For users concerned about privacy, it has been confirmed that while it's possible to retrieve an email address from Hide My Email, it doesn't pose a significant risk when used as intended. However, a class action lawsuit has been filed concerning an alleged flaw in the Hide My Email feature, seeking a payout without evidence of attacks.