Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: August 11, 2026, 5:55 AM ET

Software Updates

Apple has seeded the fifth developer betas for its major operating system updates. The latest builds of iOS 27, iPad OS, tv OS, watch OS, vision OS, and mac OS Golden Gate include a wave of refinements. Apple released macOS Golden Gate Beta 5 with bug fixes and performance improvements. Similarly, the company seeded watchOS 27 Beta 5 to developers, along with tvOS 27 Beta 5 and the fifth visionOS 27 beta. The fifth developer betas of iOS, macOS 27 land as testing continues ahead of a September launch.

In addition to the main betas, Apple surprised users with security-focused updates. The company released iOS 26.6.1 and iPadOS 26.6.1 betas with security fixes, alongside a macOS Tahoe 26.6.2 beta and a broader iOS 26.6.1 beta for iPhone. Apple is also prepping beta security updates for iOS, iOS, and macOS 26. The new build of iOS 27 introduces several notable changes. Users will find new icons for Siri, Safari, Settings and more, along with updated Liquid Glass designs. The latest iOS 27 Beta expands Siri AI voice customization, allowing greater control over pace and expressivity. There are also "Before Searching" settings and updated app icons. Apple is working on a way to authenticate that a photo came from an iPhone camera, based on references found in the beta. Meanwhile, WhatsApp’s latest beta for iOS adds references to an in-chat search tool, making it faster to find messages. One writer describes iOS 27 as the easiest beta to forget about, noting its stability.

Apple also detailed new Apple Maps features. Here’s everything new for Apple Maps in iOS 27, including enhanced navigation and transit info. Separately, the company revealed how Siri AI features work in China – raising privacy questions, as it uses Alibaba’s Qwen models. Apple briefly posted a China guide for connecting Siri to Qwen AI before pulling it.

Hardware Rumors

A flurry of leaks and reports detail Apple’s future hardware plans. A photo leak backs up massive iPhone 18 Pro Max battery rumor, showing a 5,391mAh pack — nearly 12% larger than the iPhone 17 Pro Max. A separate leak claims the iPhone 18 Pro Max’s larger battery capacity allegedly revealed through an accessory photo. Meanwhile, a leaker weighs in on correct shade for 'Dark Cherry' iPhone 18 Pro, settling a debate over the exact hue.

Contradictory reports surround the all-glass iPhone. One article claims Apple still planning 'glass-centric' iPhone redesign for 2027, refuting a cancellation rumor. However, another says Apple's all-glass 20th anniversary iPhone reportedly canceled according to Jefferies analyst Edison Lee.

Foldable iPhones remain a hot topic. The foldable 'iPhone Ultra 3' rumored to feature larger displays with a 2028 launch window. The iPhone Fold may ship in a choice of Silver or Dark Blue, and the foldable 'iPhone Ultra' rumored to come in these two colors based on accessory images.

Apple is rethinking its wearable lineup. A round Apple Watch is possible, but an Apple Ring more likely, according to analysis. A ceramic case could return with Apple Watch Series 12, per Mark Gurman. The Apple Watch rethink could see debut of round model, screenless fitness tracker, and more as the company explores radical designs.

On the Mac front, a new MacBook Pro and refreshed iMacs likely coming in October with M6 chips. However, Apple is reportedly skipping its M6 Pro and M6 Max chips to accelerate M7 launch according to Bloomberg. An OLED iMac panel could include extra layer to fight screen burn-in as LG Display develops five-layer panels.

Memory shortages are impacting supply. Apple is cutting back 2026 hardware shipments due to memory shortage, per Ming-Chi Kuo. RAM shortages now affecting MacBook Air availability, with dwindling stock. Apple is testing Chinese memory chips in iPhones and MacBooks from CXMT. Analyst Kuo pours water on rumor of $1B Apple chip stockpile at TSMC, disputing claims of a billion-dollar inventory.

Pricing rumors swirl. iPhone 17 prices could rise as soon as Monday, per a new rumor, before September’s expected increases. Will price hikes force Apple to stop dragging its feet on certain product upgrades? examines the impact of the memory crisis on product prices. Separately, the iPhone 17 is set to break a record no flagship has touched in 15 years based on rumored longevity.

Legal & Business

Apple agreed to settle a discrimination case. The company settles lawsuit over alleged discrimination against Jewish employee, paying $150,000 to resolve an EEOC claim. A crime blotter reports thieves trying to use stolen credit cards at a Miami Apple Store and other incidents.

Apple considered but ultimately scrapped a convenience feature. The scrapped Apple Upgrade feature would’ve made setup much more seamless — delivering pre-configured iPhones. The company dropped plan to ship leased iPhones already set up for users due to logistical challenges.

Media & Entertainment

Apple TV+ is expanding its content slate. The service teams up with Academy Award-winning director for the second time, picking up Alfonso Cuarón’s Ascension series. Apple TV welcomes back Ted Lasso with a clever new commercial. The Sunday Reboot column discusses AI device worries and Ted Lasso cheapness. In sports, Apple announces 3D MLB games coming to Vision Pro as part of Friday Night Baseball.

Deals & Accessories

A selection of deals and accessories are available. The TESSAN AERO 5000 MagSafe battery offers an ultra-thin titanium finish. The AirTag 2 gets even better with this add-on accessory that extends battery life to 10 years. A hands-on review of the Ohsnap MCON modular controller shows it transforming an iPhone into a mobile game console.

For shoppers, B&H is blowing out M4 15-inch MacBook Air inventory at $1,279. Amazon offers an Apple Watch SE 3 for just $219 and a deal on the A16 iPad for its best price since June's hike. The official Apple refurb store offers savings on iPhones, Mac Books, and more. A roundup of deals includes M5 MacBook Pro $300 off, AirPods Pro, and Anker chargers.

Miscellaneous

A few other stories round out the news. ChatGPT users can now book tables and join restaurant waitlists through Yelp without leaving chats. Meta just released a brand-new Facebook Creator Studio app for iPhone. Claude Code adds cross-session messaging on macOS, allowing separate coding sessions to communicate. The Indie App Spotlight: ‘Pocket Jam’ helps you learn and practice your favorite songs. A flight tracking poster and Schlage Sense Pro review appear on Smart Home Insider. The HomeKit Weekly column explains why the Eve Weather sensor is a must-have for automations. An iPhone can capture the Perseids meteor shower using the right tools and astrophotography tips. Apple @ Work analyzes what IDC's latest shipments mean for the MacBook Neo and Air. A feature request asks for an end to the guessing game with iPhone app settings. The 9to5Mac Daily podcast recaps August 10 with Apple Watch rumors and more.