Apple News 8 Hours

Last updated: July 24, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Apple's Software Updates and New Features

Apple continues testing for mac OS Sonoma 14.8.8 and mac OS Sequoia 15.7.8, releasing the seventh Release Candidate for both operating systems. iOS 27 is set to introduce a new favorite feature for the Phone app, alongside updates to Notes and Wallet. The upcoming watch OS 27 will bring a battery-saving feature called 'proactive battery extension notifications' to Apple Watch. For mac OS 27 Golden Gate, Apple is reportedly revamping the Mail app's compose window to integrate Apple Intelligence's Writing Tools and Siri AI. Meanwhile, WhatsApp is testing new message bubbles on iOS as part of its Liquid Glass redesign.

Apple Hardware and Industry Rumors

The highly anticipated iPhone Ultra is rumored for release this fall, with speculation suggesting it could be Apple's first foldable iPhone. In a separate development, a 1977 Apple-1 computer is expected to fetch at least $300,000 at auction, a price comparable to multiple iPhone 17 Pros. OpenAI's recent foray into hardware is being discussed as a potential challenge to the iPhone's dominance in a recent episode of The Mac Rumors Show.

Legal and Security Developments

A federal judge has ordered an from public access following a legal dispute over its nature as independent security research. Separately, a lawsuit has been filed after an unpatchable exploit was discovered affecting Apple's A12 and A13 chips. Apple has also agreed to pay $250 million to settle a U.S. class action lawsuit concerning Siri. In related news, President Trump has initiated a trade investigation into EU fines imposed on U.S. tech giants like Apple and Google, which could result in new tariffs.

Supply Chain and Operational Updates

New U.S. tariffs, totaling 10%, are, with goods from numerous countries where iPhones are manufactured now subject to the increased cost. Firefighters responded to a report of an outdoor fire at an Apple-leased building adjacent to Apple Park, though dispatch records have downplayed claims of major damage. Meta has launched a free 'Facebook Verified' badge to help confirm genuine users on its platform.

Apple TV+ Content and Partnerships

Subscribers to Apple TV+ can look forward to the return of "Ted Lasso" in August. A daily recap of top stories from 9to5Mac is available on iTunes and Apple's Podcasts app.