Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: August 15, 2026, 5:36 AM ET

iPhone and Apple Watch Updates

Apple is gearing up for a significant product launch event in September, expected to unveil at least five new devices. Among these are the highly anticipated iPhone 18 Pro models and new Apple Watch iterations. Rumors suggest the base iPhone 18 will receive significant upgrades, including 12GB of RAM and the Dynamic Island. The iPhone 18 Pro Max may also boast unique features compared to its smaller Pro counterpart. For those considering an upgrade, the decision between the iPhone 17 and waiting for the iPhone 18 is a key consideration, especially as Apple is reportedly skipping a standard iPhone 18 launch this year, pushing it to 2027. The iPhone Ultra is also rumored to have a staggered launch, potentially starting in the US. In wearable news, new Apple Watch models are set to launch next month, and watch OS 27 will introduce new apps like Siri and Find My to the Apple Watch.

Mac and iPad Enhancements

The Mac ecosystem continues to see updates and new features. Apple has expanded its Certified Refurbished Store with new configurations of MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. Meanwhile, the M5 Pro MacBook Pro is seeing price cuts, with some configurations available for $300 off. Amazon is also offering significant discounts on 2026 MacBook Pro models, with savings up to $500. Shortages of the MacBook Air are reportedly worsening, impacting availability. For iPad users, a new app called Dashboard has been released, capable of turning a HomeKit setup into a wall-mountable command center. Classic console games are also becoming more accessible on the Mac through native ports, bypassing traditional emulation.

Software and Services

iOS 27 is bringing a host of new features across Apple's software ecosystem. The Photos app will receive long-awaited upgrades, including improvements to slideshows and shared albums. Apple Calendar is getting a significant Home Screen widget enhancement with an extra-large view. Apple Wallet will also see upgrades, including a new ‘Discover’ section and the potential to save trade-in quotes for up to 90 days. Continuity features are being enhanced in OS, allowing for smoother transitions of Siri conversations and live content across devices. Apple One subscribers will also benefit from new features in iOS, expanding the value of the bundled service. On the app front, WhatsApp is working on customizable emoji reaction sets and chat themes with animated wallpapers. Chat GPT is deepening its integration with Google Drive, allowing users to edit files directly within the chat interface.

Apple TV and Content

Apple TV is bolstering its content library with a collection of classic movies, adding to its lineup of original series. The Ted Lasso season 4 premiere set a new record for Apple TV's biggest launch ever, and there are hints that more seasons of the popular show may be on the way. The trailer for the fifth season of the mindfulness series Stillwater has also been released on Apple TV. For those looking to upgrade their viewing experience, tv OS 27 is expected to encourage users to adopt the new Apple TV 4K, which is rumored to feature a faster chip.

Industry and Other News

Apple is reportedly in talks with publishers to license news content for its Siri AI. The company is also facing scrutiny regarding its App Store policies, with proposals to charge developers up to 15 percent for linking outside the App Store. In other news, Apple has sent out mercenary spyware warnings to users in 110 countries. The US Commerce Secretary has expressed opposition to Apple buying Chinese memory chips. Meanwhile, the iPhone X has been officially declared obsolete by Apple. In a significant shift, Foxconn's revenue from Apple has fallen below 29 percent, indicating a diversification of its business, potentially towards AI. Apple has also hired an airline executive as its new vice president of government affairs.