Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 21, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

Software Development and Betas

Apple has released iOS 27 beta, featuring a new "Automatic Downloads" option within the Apple TV app. This update, alongside mac OS 27 Golden Gate beta, continues Apple's iterative testing process ahead of the September public release. Developers can also download beta 4 for iPad OS, tv OS, and watch OS. The fourth beta of mac OS Golden Gate is now available, with Apple also seeding release candidates for mac OS 26.6 and iPad OS 26.6. Users interested in reverting from the mac OS Golden Gate beta must erase their startup disk and reinstall mac OS Tahoe.

New iPhone and Mac Rumors

The upcoming iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to feature the new A20 chip, potentially bringing two significant upgrades. Code within the latest iOS 27 beta suggests a future iPhone model could incorporate two batteries. Meanwhile, Apple has reportedly shelved two Mac Pro models, including one that was Intel-based.

App Store and Services

The App Store has seen a surge in new app releases during the first half of 2026, nearly matching the total from all of 2025, though download increases were modest at just 2%. Apple Music is being integrated into over two million Volvo vehicles via an over-the-air update, with up to three months of the service offered for free. Separately, reports indicate that Apple Music and Apple One prices are increasing. AI-generated books are becoming a growing issue on Apple Books, with some reportedly written in mere hours.

Retail and Real Estate

Apple is expanding its presence in Sunnyvale with the lease of a 126,000-square-foot office building. In its retail operations, four U.S. Apple Stores are relocating to new, nearby spaces this month, including one in Michigan's Briarwood Mall.

Hardware and Deals

Deals are available on several Apple products, including Air Pods Pro 3 for $199.99 and Air Pods Max 2 reduced to $449.00. The Air Tag 2 is also at an all-time low price, with a 4-pack available for $89.00. MacBook Pro laptops with M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips are seeing discounts of up to $400 off.

Software Features and Updates

iOS 27 is poised to enhance iPhone performance in over 30 ways, with the public beta now available. New features are also coming to Apple Wallet in iOS, including improvements to order tracking. A hidden popover interface for Siri AI, surfacing Writing Tools and contextual actions, is reportedly being tested within the mac OS 27 Golden Gate beta. Apple is also testing a new AI-powered "Live Notes" feature at Genius Bar locations, which transcribes customer interactions.

Security and Malware

A new Mac threat known as Click Lock Stealer has been uncovered, which reportedly hijacks system behavior to coerce users into surrendering passwords. A separate report highlights "Click Fix" malware as a potential new backdoor for enterprise Mac fleets.

Other Apple News

Samsung is entering the fintech space with its own credit card, the Samsung Galaxy Card, which appears to mirror the features of the Apple Card. Apple TV+ is set to premiere a new film from the director of "CODA," focusing on disability activist Judy Heumann. Higher prices across Apple's product and service lines are expected to slow upgrade cycles.