Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 22, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

Software Updates and Beta Testing

Apple has released the fourth developer betas for iOS 27, along with corresponding updates for iPad OS, tv OS, and watch OS 27 as testing continues. iOS 27 beta 4 introduces a new "Automatic Downloads" feature in the Apple TV app and includes code referencing an iPhone with two batteries. For mac OS users, the Golden Gate beta 4 brings a hidden popover interface for Siri that surfaces Writing Tools and contextual actions when text is selected. Additionally, release candidates for mac OS 26.6 and iOS 26.6 are now available, with iOS 26.6 preparing iPhones for the upcoming iOS 27 release and rebuilding the search architecture for Siri AI.

New Hardware and Programs

Apple is reportedly preparing to launch a new 'Apple Upgrade' leasing program next week, which will likely lead to the discontinuation of the existing iPhone Upgrade Program after over a decade of service. This new leasing option will be a partnership with Klarna and aims to offer a pay-as-you-go plan for Apple devices. In hardware news, code found in the iOS 27 beta suggests Apple may implement restrictions on leased devices for missed payments. Furthermore, rumors suggest a second-generation iPhone Air is in development, potentially addressing limitations of the current model with an expected release in spring 2027.

Legal and Patent Battles

Apple's legal challenges continue as the company has lost its bid to overturn a $634 million patent verdict in its ongoing dispute with Masimo, with a new trial also being denied in the long-running legal battle. Separately, Apple has addressed a vulnerability in its Hide My Email service that could expose users' real email addresses, though reports indicate the fix may have taken over a year to implement after the issue was first reported and the flaw was reproduced two weeks after Apple claimed it was resolved.

Apple TV+ and Content

Apple TV+ is expanding its content library with new releases and upcoming seasons. A Mexican microdrama titled "Nido de Villanas," shot entirely on an iPhone 17 Pro, is now available as 14 Shorts on YouTube showcasing the capabilities of Apple's devices for content creation. The streaming service has also released the trailer for the second season of "Women in Blue" with the premiere just weeks away. Additionally, Apple TV+ is set to screen a new film from "CODA" director Sian Heder, a biopic about disability activist Judy Heumann.

Device Features and Accessories

Recent software updates are enhancing user experience across Apple devices. iOS 27 is poised to make iPhones faster in numerous ways, with the public beta now available. The Aqara W200 smart thermostat is now available, featuring Apple's Adaptive Temperature technology for Apple Home. In accessories, deals are available on Air Pods Pro, with Amazon offering them for $199.99 and AirPods Max 2 at $449.00. Air Tag 2 is also seeing significant discounts, including an all-time low price of $89.00 for a 4-pack.

App Development and Testing

The App Store has seen a surge in new releases, with nearly as many apps added in the first half of 2026 as in all of 2025. Claude Code's Mac app now allows users to test iOS apps in an interactive simulator pane directly within the application provided Xcode with the iOS platform is installed. Apple's Test Flight app has also been updated with a search field for quickly finding beta-tested apps.

Apple Care and Retail

Apple Care+ is undergoing changes in Japan, introducing new theft and loss coverage options and expanded plan choices. In retail news, four Apple Stores in the U.S. are relocating this month to nearby new spaces. A new Apple Store is also set to open in Ann Arbor, Michigan, later this month at the Briarwood Mall.

Other Apple News

Apple's presence in Sunnyvale is expanding with the lease of a 126,000-square-foot office building following a significant real estate push in the South Bay. In a move mirroring Apple Card's entry into fintech, Samsung has launched its own credit card, the Samsung Galaxy Card, offering competitive cash-back rewards highlighting the growing trend of tech companies entering financial services. Meanwhile, Volvo is rolling out an update to add Apple Music to over two million vehicles, offering up to three months of free access expanding the integration of Apple's music service into the automotive sector.