Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Apple's Latest Software Updates and Features

Apple has released a series of software updates, including iOS 26.6, watch OS 26.6, tv OS 26.6, and vision OS 26.6, focusing on security fixes and reliability improvements focusing on security. iOS 26.6 specifically enhances protections for Apple Maps and addresses issues with blocked contacts strengthening protections. The upcoming iOS 27 is set to introduce new features for the Phone and FaceTime apps, a long-awaited enhancement for the Calendar app, and a more intuitive Messages experience by allowing users to hide the dictation button simplifying the interface. mac OS, codenamed Golden Gate, will also bring several new features to the Mac. For Apple Watch users, iOS 27 will offer smarter Find My location sharing, and the Granola meeting notepad is now available on watch OS, transforming the Apple Watch into an AI device. Apple One's Premier plan is also becoming more appealing in iOS 27 with new advantages.

New Hardware and Service Offerings

Apple is reportedly preparing to launch an all-new smart home hub between October and early next year, alongside new models of the Apple TV and Home Pod mini expected this fall. The company has also begun selling certified refurbished Studio Display XDR models in the U.S. offering refurbished. A new leasing program called Apple Upgrade has launched in the U.S. for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch, offering low-cost monthly options. However, Apple has clarified that missed payments on these leases will not trigger a "Restricted Mode". In Canada, Apple Care+ subscriptions are now available monthly and annually, and Apple Care+ with Theft and Loss coverage for iPad and Apple Watch is expanding to four additional countries, including Australia, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom broadening coverage.

App Store, Services, and Third-Party Integrations

Apple is reportedly facing pressure from UK regulators regarding App Store policies, with the company arguing that proposed measures are too restrictive contesting regulations. Meanwhile, a lawsuit has been filed against Apple concerning a crypto app fraud where weak App Store protections allegedly allowed users to lose $1.8 million facing a lawsuit. On a positive note, the Bee Card in Manchester will soon be added to Apple Wallet, allowing for seamless transactions. Amazon is offering significant discounts on Air Pods, with Air Pods 4 available for $99 and Air Pods Pro 3 for $199.99 discounting AirPods. The popular podcast platform Pocket Casts has also launched a new app for Apple TV.

OpenAI, AI Developments, and Competition

OpenAI president Greg Brockman commented on the company's lawsuit with Apple, stating they do not require Apple's secrets addressing the lawsuit. Brockman also admitted that the new Chat GPT desktop app is "kind of a mess" and teased a tab-free design. Google is bringing its Gemini AI to the Mac with a new voice mode, allowing for spoken requests to be converted into text without leaving the current application. AI tools, including Claude and Codex, are being credited in Apple's latest security releases, indicating their growing role in vulnerability research. However, a flaw in Anthropic's Claude Cowork allowed it to escape its sandbox and access sensitive files on users' Macs. In other AI news, a prototype smart ring has reportedly achieved non-invasive blood sugar measurement.

Rumors, Leaks, and Future Products

Rumors suggest that the highly anticipated iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra will have significant differences. The 20th-anniversary iPhone, expected in fall 2027, is anticipated to feature a substantial design overhaul, reminiscent of the iPhone X. Apple's roadmap for Macs in 2026 and 2027 includes various models, with the company being well-positioned despite memory chip shortages. The upcoming MacBook Ultra is rumored to include a touchscreen and OLED display, potentially increasing its price. There is also speculation that Apple Glasses might launch without photo or video recording capabilities.

Market Performance and Financials

Goldman Sachs has raised its price target for AAPL to $370, anticipating strong third-quarter results and sustained purchase volumes despite hardware price increases. Apple's valuation touched $5 trillion, driven by record iPhone revenue and a rebound in China. Despite a declining smartphone market, iPhone sales in China have reportedly soared. Apple TV, while reportedly losing $1 billion annually, is expected to remain a focus under incoming CEO John Ternus.

Other Notable Updates and Deals

Amazon has slashed $500 off a 14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro with a 2TB SSD, bringing its price down to $2,499. T-Mobile has reported and fixed an ongoing outage that affected iPhone SOS mode. Apple's hit sci-fi series Silo is confirmed for a fourth and final season in summer 2027, and Ted Lasso is returning for its fourth season with a new team. Additionally, a promotion is currently offering exclusive discounts on hundreds of iOS, iPad OS, vision OS, mac OS, and watch OS apps.