Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 26, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Productivity and Software Updates

Apple's upcoming iOS 27 will introduce several notable features, including enhanced iCloud capabilities across apps like Apple Home and Siri iOS 27. The Messages app is also slated for updates, alongside improvements to the Wallet and Calendar apps. Furthermore, iOS 27 is set to bring performance enhancements, optimizing system animations and Air Drop transfer speeds. The operating system will also feature a new Phone app function that is quickly becoming a favorite, and watch OS 27 will include a proactive battery extension notification to improve Apple Watch battery life. mac OS 27 is reportedly reworking the Mail app's compose window to integrate Apple Intelligence's Writing Tools and Siri AI.

Hardware and Device Rumors

Speculation surrounds Apple's future hardware, with the eventual launch of still anticipated in 2027, though public distrust in smart glasses presents a challenge. The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 are also on the horizon, with details emerging about potential features. Apple's next iPad mini is expected to be the first iPad with a water-resistant design. A significant redesign for a high-end MacBook, potentially dubbed 'MacBook Ultra,' is anticipated with numerous new features. The iPhone 18 Pro is expected this fall, though the entire iPhone lineup will not debut simultaneously, with the Pro model being a key upgrade for some. Apple is also reportedly seeking a 20% OLED panel price cut for the iPhone 18 Pro Max due to rising component costs. The foldable iPhone Ultra is projected to capture 25% of the foldable smartphone market share in 2026.

Deals and Pricing

Several Apple devices are currently available at reduced prices. B&H is offering discounts of up to $200 on various configurations of the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air laptops. MacBook deals are generally more affordable, with some configurations seeing price drops. Savings are also available across the entire Air Pods lineup, with Air Tag 2 hitting a record low price, and Apple's A16 iPad seeing its best prices since June. Apple is also reportedly exploring a new device leasing and financing program, the 'Apple Upgrade' program, alongside price increases on services like Apple Music.

Legal and Security Matters

Apple faces a new lawsuit from three customers claiming to have lost a combined $1.8 million due to a fake Bitcoin wallet app in the App Store. A federal judge has ordered an iPhone exploit to be taken offline following arguments that it was not independent security research. A boot ROM vulnerability affecting Apple's A12 and A13 chips has also been detailed in a new lawsuit. Separately, Apple is involved in a trade secrets lawsuit against OpenAI, which has been reassigned to a new judge. In other legal news, Apple has agreed to pay $250 million to settle a U.S. class action lawsuit regarding Siri.

Industry and Content

Apple TV+ is releasing new trailers for upcoming shows including "Dark Matter," "Neuromancer," and "Matchbox". The streaming service will also feature the return of "Ted Lasso" in August. A new report indicates that Apple TV is more reliable than Android for digital signage applications. In the realm of third-party apps, Pastebot 3 has been updated with improved organization and automation tools for Mac users. The Keychron Q6 HE 8K mechanical keyboard is noted as a solid option for Mac users. Separately, Opera One browser is introducing vertical tabs and expanded Google Lens integration.

Consumer Electronics and Accessories

Apple Pay is set to receive four new features, enhancing its functionality for in-store, online, and in-app purchases. Driver's licenses and IDs may soon be available in Apple Wallet for users in Utah, indicating Apple's expansion of this feature. The Amazon Basics Matter plug is offering Home Kit support for under $10, providing an affordable option for smart home integration. A fire was reported near Apple Park, though dispatch records suggest the damage was not as significant as initially claimed.

AI and Competitor Landscape

OpenAI's Chat GPT and Codex are experiencing outages for some users. OpenAI is also updating its Chat GPT desktop app with GPT Voice mode to facilitate task completion through conversation. A lawsuit has been filed against OpenAI after Chat GPT allegedly used religious faith to advise a user against seeking medical attention. The Mac Rumors Show podcast discusses whether OpenAI can compete with the iPhone in the hardware space.

Historical and Miscellaneous

A working 1977 Apple-1 computer is expected to fetch at least $300,000 at an upcoming auction. An article reflects on the differing contributions of Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs to Apple's early success. Researchers have discovered a method to bypass mac OS security and potentially swap trusted Mac apps for malware, though it requires specific steps. A woman who stole from a Wendy's returned for her Air Pods, and an argument about an Apple Watch led to a shooting.