Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Apple's Software and Services See Major Updates and Price Adjustments

Apple has released the public beta for iOS, introducing significant changes including a new app on the iPhone's Home Screen and a major overhaul to Notification Center, breaking 15 years of muscle memory iOS 27. The new operating system also brings enhancements to CarPlay and Apple Music's Auto Mix feature. Alongside the iOS 27 beta, mac OS 27 Golden Gate public beta is also available mac OS 27. In other service news, Apple has increased iCloud+ subscription prices in several countries iCloud+ prices and raised Apple Care+ prices for Macs and iPads AppleCare+ prices, though Apple Care One remains a strong value proposition. The company is also offering its 2026 Back to School promotion in select countries and has listed products eligible for tax-free holidays in 10 U.S. states tax-free holidays.

AI Developments and App Store Scrutiny

The tech landscape is abuzz with AI advancements and regulatory attention. A San Francisco City Attorney has demanded Apple and Google remove 13 AI "face-swap" apps capable of generating nonconsensual nude images AI apps. Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly looking to acquire AI chip companies to reduce its reliance on Nvidia. In a related development, Apple is suing OpenAI, alleging trade secret theft, with former Apple VP Tang Tan at the center of the dispute OpenAI lawsuit. Separately, EU regulators have ordered Google to grant third-party AI services equal access to Android features as its own Gemini. On the app front, an investigation revealed dozens of disguised gambling apps on the App Store in Brazil, prompting further scrutiny from Brazilian officials.

Hardware Rumors and Product Updates

Anticipation is building for upcoming Apple hardware. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected in two months with 12 new features, while Apple is reportedly ramping up orders for vapor chambers for its anticipated foldable iPhone and 20th-anniversary iPhone models iPhone rumors. Apple has also begun selling refurbished iPad mini models with the A17 Pro chip, and Amazon is offering a $200 discount on the M4 iPad Air 13-inch with 512GB storage. The entry-level iPad, initially expected this year, may be delayed. On the wearable front, the Apple Watch Series 12 is rumored to include four new features.

Industry Trends and Financial Performance

Apple continues to demonstrate strong customer loyalty, with iPhone loyalty rates climbing to 87% in early 2026, indicating a slowdown in users switching to Android. The company has regained its position as the world's most valuable publicly traded company, surpassing Nvidia in market valuation. However, Apple has implemented price increases for iPhones in Japan and across various other products and services globally. Apple supplier TSMC has pledged an additional $100 billion for U.S. chip investments TSMC investment.

App and Service Ecosystem Expansions

Beyond core operating systems and hardware, Apple's broader ecosystem is also seeing developments. WhatsApp is rolling out its new username feature WhatsApp usernames and has added in-call controls for Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum on iPhone. 1Password has added support for Claude, allowing the AI to access credentials without direct password visibility. Apple's Car Key feature is reportedly expanding to Great Wall Motor's TANK SUVs. In entertainment, Apple TV+ has released the first trailer for its docuseries ‘The Dynasty: UConn Huskies’ and announced the return date for ‘Where’s Wanda?’ season two. Major League Soccer is also returning to Apple TV following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Other Notable Updates and Deals

Apple has updated its Advertising Services policy, specifying ad categories that will not be permitted in the Maps app. The company has also closed a loophole that allowed carrier-financed iPhones to be purchased unlocked. In terms of deals, several promotions are available, including discounts on Air Pods Pro, Air Pods 4 with ANC, and MacBook Air models AirPods deals, as well as savings on MacBook Pro models. The European Commission has exempted Apple Watch and Air Pods from battery removal requirements under its Batteries Regulation.