Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Software Updates and Beta Programs

Apple continued beta for a suite of operating systems, releasing the fourth developer betas for iOS, mac OS Golden Gate, tv OS, watch OS, and iPad OS. The iOS 27 beta and is expected to bring major Siri AI upgrades. Code within the iOS 27 beta also hints at an iPhone model with two batteries. In parallel, Apple seeded release candidates for iOS 26.6 and iPad OS 26.6, as well as mac OS Tahoe 26.6, signaling upcoming stable updates. For mac OS users, the fourth developer beta of mac OS Golden Gate is now available, with noted for its potential writing tools and contextual actions. A separate mac OS 26.6 release candidate has also been provided to developers.

New Hardware and Rumors

Rumors surrounding the iPhone 18 Pro for the upcoming A20 chip. On the tablet front, a new iPad mini is anticipated, marking its first significant update in two years. Apple has also, including one that was Intel-based. Meanwhile, ongoing sales are offering discounts on various Apple products, with Air Pods Pro 3 available for $199.99, Air Pods 4 for $99, and Air Tag 2 at an all-time low of $89 for a four-pack. Air Pods Max 2 are also discounted to $449.00.

App Store and Services

The App Store saw a surge in new app releases during the first half of 2026, nearly matching the total for all of 2025, though download increases were modest at just 2%. Apple Music is being integrated into over two million Volvo vehicles, with an over-the-air update adding the service and offering up to three months free. Apple Wallet is also seeing enhancements in iOS, including and improved order tracking capabilities, though Amazon has recently. In content news, Apple TV+ is set to release a new film from the director of "CODA," focusing on disability activist Judy Heumann.

Retail and Business Operations

Apple continues to expand its physical footprint with a new 126,000-square-foot office lease in Sunnyvale. In retail news, four Apple Stores in the U.S. are relocating this month, with a new store opening in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Apple is also reportedly testing a new AI-powered "Live Notes" feature at its Genius Bar locations, which transcribes customer conversations. This initiative, however regarding monitoring and evaluation. Separately, Samsung has launched its Galaxy Card in the U.S., offering 5% cash back in an apparent move to compete with the Apple Card.

Security and Pricing

A new Mac malware called Click Lock Stealer has emerged, capable of making Macs unusable until users surrender their passwords. In response to rising costs, Apple has been increasing prices across a range of products and services, including Macs, iPads, and iCloud+ subscriptions in several countries, which readers suggest may. Password manager 1Password has added support for Claude, enabling the AI service to.

Other Notable Updates

Volvo is integrating Apple Music into more than two million vehicles, offering a. The Apple Sports app has been updated to include additional soccer leagues in Asia and Europe, along with the ability to view team formations. Despite the excitement around upcoming software, some users are experiencing issues with mac OS.5, including. Apple has also been dealing with AI-generated content, with reports of within hours of the originals.