Apple News 8 Hours

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Apple Intelligence and Software Updates

Apple released iOS, featuring a host of new Siri and Apple Intelligence capabilities. This beta allows users worldwide to test the latest software, including significant updates to Siri AI. The company has also made the first mac OS 27 Golden Gate public beta available, offering early access to the new Mac operating system ahead of its official fall release. Additionally, the Apple TV app for Android has received an update, introducing homescreen widgets, and Apple Music now includes WhatsApp sharing and an enhanced Auto Mix feature within iOS. Music's Auto Mix is getting a significant upgrade with the latest iOS iteration.

Hardware and Accessory News

TSMC, a key supplier for Apple, has for its U.S. chip manufacturing plants, escalating its total investment to $265 billion. In other hardware news, Apple has begun selling refurbished iPad Mini models equipped with the A17 Pro chip in the U.S. and Canada. While a new entry-level iPad was previously rumored for this year, it appears that launch may no longer be on the schedule. Meanwhile, Amazon is offering deals on 2026 MacBook Pro models, with savings of up to $500, though these are no longer pre-price hike markdowns. Apple has also increased the price of some AppleCare+ subscription plans for Macs and iPads. Reports suggest Apple is for its anticipated foldable iPhone and 20th-anniversary iPhone models.

App and Service Developments

The password management app 1Password has, enabling the AI service to access credentials without direct visibility of user passwords. Apple has also clarified its Advertising Services policy, outlining ad categories that will be prohibited within the Maps app. In a legal development, a proposed class action lawsuit is seeking payouts related to an alleged Hide My Email flaw, though it does not claim the vulnerability was actively exploited. Furthermore, Apple is ending a loophole that allowed carrier-financed iPhones purchased from Apple to be unlocked, meaning these devices will now be locked to the carrier.

Regulatory and Market Actions

The European Commission has, mandating that rival AI applications receive the same level of access to Android device features as Google's own Gemini. Apple's annual Back to School promotion has commenced in select countries across Asia. The company has also updated its website to in ten U.S. states. In a move impacting iPhone purchases, carrier-financed iPhones bought directly from Apple will soon be locked to the respective carrier, closing a previous workaround for obtaining unlocked devices on payment plans.