Apple News 3 Hours

Last updated: March 30, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Software Development & Litigation

Apple suffered a setback as the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously rejected both of its petitions for a rehearing in the protracted legal battle against Epic Games. This decision maintains the existing ruling concerning the company’s App Store policies, continuing a regulatory challenge that has spanned several years. Concurrently, the company pushed out new software, releasing iOS 26.5 beta 1 to developers today, although reports indicate the preliminary build did not introduce the anticipated significant new user-facing features.

Product Lifecycle & User Maintenance

Following a busy hardware refresh cycle, Apple discontinued 14 product models throughout March, including three specific SKUs that received no direct successor models, clearing inventory space for recent launches. For users preparing for future system migrations or major software installations, internal guidance continues to stress proactive data management, advising users that backing up an iPhone or iPad directly to a Mac remains the fastest and most secure method for protecting personal data prior to updates or device swaps.