Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: August 10, 2026, 5:53 PM ET

iOS 27 Beta 5 and OS Updates

Apple released the fifth developer betas for its major operating system updates this week, including iOS 27, macOS Golden Gate, tvOS 27, and visionOS 27. The latest builds bring redesigned Liquid Glass icons for Siri, Safari, and Settings, expanded Siri AI voice customization options for pace and expressivity, and new "Before Searching" settings. Apple also seeded surprise betas for older OS versions, including iOS 26.6.1, and macOS Tahoe 26.6.2, all focused on security fixes. Meanwhile, a deeper look at Apple Maps in iOS 27 reveals new transit details, enhanced navigation, and improved place cards. Despite the flurry of betas, many users find iOS 27 the easiest beta to forget about, given its relatively stable nature.

Supply Chain, Memory Shortages, and Pricing

Apple is feeling the heat from global DRAM and RAM shortages. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said Apple is scaling back 2026 hardware shipments due to memory constraints, and a separate report details how MacBook Air stock is dwindling amid the same shortages. Kuo also poured cold water on rumors of a billion-dollar Apple chip stockpile at TSMC, calling the claim unlikely. In response to rising component costs, Apple has already increased prices on products like the iPad Air and M5 MacBook Pro, and a new rumor claims iPhone 17 prices could rise as soon as Monday. Apple is also testing memory chips from China's ChangXin Memory Technologies across iPhones and Mac Books to diversify supply. The ongoing memory crisis has forced Apple to drag its feet on certain product upgrades, though price hikes may accelerate that process.

iPhone, iPhone Fold, and Anniversary Models

A leaked photo allegedly reveals the iPhone 18 Pro Max will pack a massive 5,391mAh battery — nearly 12% larger than the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Separately, a known leaker weighed in on the correct shade for the iPhone 18 Pro Max's "Dark Cherry" color, settling a debate among fans. For the foldable lineup, new accessory images suggest Apple's first foldable, dubbed "iPhone Ultra," will launch in silver and dark blue. A separate report confirms the iPhone Fold will ship in those same two colors. a third-generation foldable iPhone Ultra 3 is rumored for a 2028 launch with even larger displays. Meanwhile, Jefferies analyst Edison Lee claims Apple's rumored all-glass 20th anniversary iPhone has been canceled. On a brighter note, the iPhone 17 is set to break a 15-year record for longevity as a flagship, and a guide explains why you should buy the iPhone 17 Pro now rather than waiting for the iPhone.

Apple Watch Redesign and Ceramic Case

A Bloomberg report indicates Apple is re-evaluating the Apple Watch lineup, considering a round model, a screenless fitness tracker, and other radical redesigns. A round Apple Watch is possible, but an Apple Ring is viewed as more likely. Additionally, the ceramic Apple Watch casing could return as soon as this year with the Series.

MacBook, iMac, and Chip Roadmap

Apple is likely to unveil a new M6 MacBook Pro and refreshed iMacs in October, according to Mark Gurman. The same report notes Apple is skipping its M6 Pro and M6 Max chips to accelerate the M7 launch. For the desktop, LG Display is developing a five-layer OLED iMac panel with an extra layer to fight burn-in. B&H is blowing out inventory of the M4 15-inch MacBook Air for $1,279, while supply chain reports show Mac shipments growing amid a declining PC market.

Apple TV+ and Entertainment

Apple TV picked up Alfonso Cuarón’s *Ascensionseries, marking his second collaboration with the platform after Disclaimer. The streaming service also launched a clever "Welcome Back" commercial for Ted Lasso season four. In sports, Apple announced 3D MLB games coming to Vision Pro, with the September Friday Night Baseball schedule now live.

Siri AI, Privacy, and Software Features

Apple briefly published a support guide in China explaining how Mac users can connect Siri to Alibaba's Qwen AI before pulling it entirely. The company later revealed how Siri AI features will work in China, raising privacy questions. Meanwhile, iOS 27 beta 5 references a new photo authentication feature designed to verify that an image came from an iPhone camera. A feature request highlights the need for a shortcut to end the guessing game with iPhone app settings. On the security front, Apple preps beta updates for iOS 18, iOS, and mac OS.

Third-Party Apps and Accessories

Meta released a new Facebook Creator Studio app for iPhone, while WhatsApp is bringing parental controls to the iPhone. Anthropic updated Claude Code with cross-session messaging on mac OS. The Ohsnap MCON controller slides open to transform an iPhone into a mobile game console. An AirTag 2 add-on accessory extends battery life to 10 years. Apple added 43 new Made for iPhone hearing devices from 22 brands. For smart homes, the Eve Weather sensor is highlighted as a must-have for Home Kit automations. A flight tracking poster and the Schlage Sense Pro review appear on the Smart Home Insider podcast. The indie app Pocket Jam helps users learn songs on iPhone. And if your Car Play connection drops, radio interference might be the cause.

Deals and Discounts

The official Apple Certified Refurbished Store offers hundreds in savings on iPhones, Mac Books, and more. Amazon is selling the Apple Watch SE 3 for $219, and the 11th generation iPad is down to $399. AirPods Pro 3 at nearly 25% off remains live, with the Matte Black Beats Solo Buds as low as $41.

Apple Upgrade Scrapped and Other Tidbits

Apple considered a "white-glove" element for its Apple Upgrade leasing program that would have delivered pre-set phones, but the idea never shipped. A crime blotter reports thieves trying to use stolen credit cards at a Miami Apple Store, and a Senate committee has Anthony Fauci's iPhone.