Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Apple's Latest Software and Public Betas

Apple has released the first public betas for iOS 27 and mac OS Golden Gate to a wider audience. Users can now test these upcoming operating systems, with guides available on how to install the mac OS 27 Golden Gate Public Beta for broader adoption and how to downgrade from the iOS 27 Beta to iOS 26 if stability issues arise. The iOS 27 public beta includes changes to CarPlay and introduces an all-new app to the iPhone's Home Screen. Discussions around the iOS 27 Public Beta and its new features can be found on podcasts like 9to5Mac Overtime offering insights.

App Store and Developer News

A San Francisco City Attorney has issued cease-and-desist letters to Apple and Google, demanding the removal of 13 AI "face-swap" apps capable of generating nonconsensual nude images. In other app news, WhatsApp has begun rolling out its new username feature to select users and is activating reserved usernames for a limited number of iPhone users with gradual deployment. WhatsApp is also introducing in-call controls for Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum on iPhone. Separately, an investigation has uncovered dozens of disguised gambling apps on the App Store in Brazil posing as games and utilities.

Apple's Hardware and Services Pricing

Apple has raised iCloud+ subscription prices in several countries after previously increasing prices for all Macs and iPads worldwide last month. This follows reports of Apple raising iPhone prices in Japan. Apple Care+ subscription plans for Macs and iPads have also seen price hikes, making the Apple Care One warranty bundle a potentially better value. Despite these price adjustments, Apple's 2026 Back to School promotion is live in select countries, though other resellers may provide greater savings on select models. Deals are available on various Apple products, including Air Pods Pro, MacBook Pro models with discounts up to $500 offering savings and a 512GB M4 iPad Air 13-inch with a $200 discount.

Market Position and Company Valuations

Apple has once again surpassed Nvidia to become the world's most valuable publicly traded company. In a significant development for the semiconductor industry, Apple chip supplier TSMC has pledged an additional $100 billion for U.S. plants boosting its commitment. Meanwhile, Apple's long-running DOJ antitrust case may be heading towards an early settlement.

Device Loyalty and Future Products

iPhone loyalty rates are climbing, with new research indicating an 87% loyalty for the first quarter of 2026. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected in two months, with rumors suggesting they will feature vapor chamber cooling components. However, one report suggests users might not need to wait for the iPhone 18 Pro. Apple's Car Keys feature is reportedly expanding to TANK vehicles made by Chinese manufacturer Great Wall Motor (GWM).

Third-Party App and Service Integrations

WhatsApp is gradually rolling out a full username feature for user convenience. Popular password management app 1Password has added support for Claude, allowing the AI service to access credentials without direct password exposure. YouTube is aware of an issue where picture-in-picture mode is not activating on iPhones and Android devices. Indie app 'Passable' has been highlighted for its ease of sharing contact information through Apple Wallet.

Smart Home and Entertainment

Hardwired Matter lighting is now available with the Switch Bot RGBICWW ceiling light, integrating natively with Apple Home. Apple TV has released the first trailer for its upcoming docuseries, ‘The Dynasty: UConn Huskies’ ahead of its debut. Apple TV for Android is receiving updates including homescreen widgets, and Apple Music for Android now supports WhatsApp sharing across platforms. The mindfulness series Stillwater is set to release its fifth season on Apple TV with a confirmed date.

Security and Privacy Concerns

A new mac OS Click Fix malware has emerged, potentially creating a backdoor for enterprise fleets. While Apple's Hide My Email feature is designed to protect user privacy, it has been noted that it's relatively easy to find a real email address behind it, though this may not be a significant concern for typical use as a spam filter. Despite this, a class action lawsuit has been filed seeking payouts related to Hide My Email without evidence of actual attacks seeking damages. Separately, Meta AI can now alert parents if their teens discuss self-harm on Instagram.

Platform and Competition

The European Commission has formally ordered Google to grant third-party AI services the same access to Android device features as its own Gemini AI. Apple and OpenAI are reportedly in tense discussions, with accusations of trade secret theft emerging escalating disputes. In a different competitive landscape, Signal Ring offers blood pressure readings, unlike Apple Watch which primarily generates alerts for potential hypertension.

Developer and Industry News

Apple's WWDC 2026 keynote is anticipated to focus on the future of gaming and the potential impact of super apps on the Apple ecosystem. Apple has also updated its Advertising Services policy, outlining ad categories that will not be permitted in the Maps app imposing restrictions. Carrier-financed iPhones purchased from Apple will soon be locked to the respective carrier, ending a previous workaround for purchasing unlocked devices on payment plans.