Apple News 8 Hours

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Apple Software and Services Updates

iOS 27 is set to launch this fall, bringing a trio of frequently used new features to iPhones, including an enhancement to the 'Suggested Places' feature in Apple Maps that builds upon the iOS.5 update. The Messages app in iOS 27 will also allow users to hide the often-mistakenly pressed dictation or voice icon, preventing accidental music pauses. Additionally, the high-end Apple One Premier plan in iOS, making the bundle more appealing. mac OS, codenamed "Golden Gate," will also arrive this fall with five new features that have been well-received, including various improvements.

OpenAI and AI Developments

OpenAI president Greg Brockman with Apple in a recent interview, stating that OpenAI does not require Apple's "secrets." He also commented on the current state of the Chat GPT desktop app, admitting it is "kind of a mess" but teasing a new tab-free design. Google is also expanding AI accessibility by bringing a voice-first mode for Gemini to the Mac, allowing users to interact with the AI assistant through spoken commands without leaving their current application.

Apple Hardware and Retail

Apple has begun selling certified refurbished Studio Display XDR models in the U.S. for the first time since its release, offering a discounted option for the professional display. In terms of audio accessories, the Air Pods Max 2 are currently available at a reduced price of $449 on Amazon, marking a $100 discount, while the Air Pods Pro 3 remain available for $199.99, their best price since Prime Day. Best Buy is also participating in back-to-school sales with significant discounts on Apple products, including AirPods and MacBooks.

iPhone and Mobile Features

The iPhone Upgrade program, which launched yesterday for iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches, with its value proposition being a point of discussion regarding its worthiness for consumers. The digital driver's license feature for iPhone is reportedly expanding to a 15th U.S. state soon. In the realm of smartphone innovation, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 has been reviewed, with its features offering insights into potential directions for the iPhone Ultra. Meanwhile, the Runna fitness app has introduced an "Adapt for Heat" feature for subscribers, which automatically adjusts training pace targets based on local heat and humidity levels.

Regulatory and Policy Discussions

Apple has informed UK regulators that proposed measures for the App Store are too restrictive and exceed the goal of promoting competition, calling them "highly intrusive". In educational technology policy, support for school cellphone bans has reached a new high, with a growing number of Americans favoring policies that keep students off their phones for the entire school day.