Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 19, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Software and Betas

Apple released first of iOS 27 and mac OS Golden Gate this week, expanding testing to a wider audience. The iOS 27 public beta is now available, and early reports suggest it significantly enhances iPhone performance, with Apple outlining over 30 improvements. For those who have already installed the beta, a guide is available on how to downgrade to iOS 26 if stability or usability issues arise. The new iOS 27 also introduces changes to Car Play. Additionally, users can access a new iPhone Recovery Screen in iOS.

Retail and Services

A new at the Briarwood Mall in Ann Arbor, Michigan on July 31st. Meanwhile, Apple is testing a new AI-powered "Live Notes" feature at Genius Bar locations, which transcribes customer-employee conversations. However, this tool has sparked concerns among employees regarding potential monitoring and evaluation. Apple has also increased prices on more products and services globally, following earlier price hikes on Macs and iPads. iCloud+ subscription prices in several countries. In response to these changes, a poll asks users if they believe Apple's higher pricing will become permanent. Apple's annual Back to School promotion has gone live in select countries, and the company has listed products eligible for tax-free holidays in 10 U.S. states. Apple One, despite recent price increases, still offers substantial savings for users who regularly utilize its bundled services.

Hardware and Components

Apple decided against releasing "M2 Extreme" and "M3 Extreme" chips for the Mac Pro. In other hardware news, B&H is offering significant discounts of up to $400 on various 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips. Deals on Air Pods Pro 3 are available for as low as $199.99, with Air Pods 4 also discounted to $99. Further Air Pods deals include the Air Pods Pro 3 for a $50 price drop and Air Pods 4 with ANC starting at $119. Amazon is offering a on the 13-inch M4 iPad Air with 512GB of storage. Apple's chip supplier, TSMC, has pledged an additional $100 billion for U.S. chip plants, bringing its total commitment to $265 billion. Apple has also reportedly increased orders for vapor chamber cooling components, potentially for upcoming foldable iPhone and 20th-anniversary iPhone models.

Industry and Ecosystem

Apple momentarily regained its position as the world's most valuable publicly traded company, surpassing Nvidia. iPhone loyalty remains strong, with a recent survey indicating 87% of iPhone owners are sticking with the platform. Google making progress in switching iPhone users to Android, highlighting Apple's robust customer base. Apple's Car Key feature is expected to support future TANK SUVs from Chinese manufacturer Great Wall Motor (GWM). In a significant development, Apple sued OpenAI, citing trade secret accusations, while also discussing EU regulations and the future of gaming. WhatsApp has begun rolling out its new username feature, with some users already reserving their usernames. The company is also for select iPhone users. Apple has outlining advertising categories that will not be permitted in the Maps app. Carrier-financed iPhones purchased from Apple will soon be locked to the carrier, ending a loophole previously used for purchasing unlocked iPhones on payment plans.

App and Data Privacy

A San Francisco City Attorney has to Apple and Google, demanding the removal of 13 AI "face-swap" apps capable of generating nonconsensual nude images. Apple Insider has confirmed that it is a real email address behind the Hide My Email feature, though it is not considered a significant concern for intended use as a spam filter. In the App Store, an investigation revealed dozens of disguised gambling apps in Brazil, masquerading as simple games and utilities. In a positive spotlight for independent developers, the app 'Passable' to share contact information through Apple Wallet. For AI integration, 1Password has added support for Claude, allowing the AI service to access credentials without direct password exposure. OpenAI has also in its Chat GPT app for Mac to improve usability. The Apple Journal app, while not explicitly designed for mental health, aligns well with principles of reflective writing supported by psychological research.

Promotions and Deals

Apple's Back to School promotion is now live in select countries in Asia, including China, India, and Malaysia. Mac Rumors is offering a giveaway in partnership with Satechi, giving readers a chance to win a MacBook Neo and a set of color-matched accessories from Satechi. YouTube picture-in-picture mode is currently broken on both iPhone and Android devices. Apple's long-running DOJ antitrust case, as Apple and the Justice Department are reportedly in early settlement discussions. Apple TV+ has for its upcoming docuseries, "The Dynasty: UConn Huskies."