Last updated: September 30, 2026, 2:07 PM ET
Apple Watch & iPhone
The latest Apple Watch lineup is here, with the Series 12 and Ultra 4 set to gain two new health-focused features later this year. For shoppers deciding between models, a detailed buyer’s guide compares the SE 3 against the Series 12 across price, sensors, and performance.
On the iPhone front, a small number of iPhone 18 Pro users are reporting speaker “pops” or “clicks,” though the issue appears limited. A review of the iPhone 18 Pro Max calls its cameras Apple’s best yet, but notes the improvements are most noticeable when pixel-peeping. Apple has also detailed the clever engineering behind embedding Face ID beneath the iPhone 18 Pro’s display.
iPad & Mac
The iPad Mini 8 is expected to offer ten new features, according to a leak, including a larger display and upgraded processor. On the Mac side, the M5 15-inch MacBook Air with 24GB RAM and a 1TB SSD has dropped to $1,849 ahead of fall Prime Day. Separately, Amazon is taking up to $150 off select M5 MacBook Air models.
iPhone Duo & Pre-Order Scams
Apple’s new iPhone Duo is expected to sell six million units by the end of 2026. However, users are being warned not to open links to an early pre-order page, as scammers have launched a fake site designed to steal crypto wallet data and more. A similar alert from 9to5Mac details how the fraudulent page can compromise personal information.
Smart Home & October 13 Event
Apple is planning a major smart home push on October 13. The company will unveil a trio of new products, including a refreshed HomePod mini, a new Apple TV 4K, and a “Home Hub.” However, a new report claims that the October 13 launch will not include a rumored full-size Home Pod. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says Apple still plans to release a new full-sized HomePod, but not at this event.
The centerpiece of the event will be Apple’s long-rumored smart home hub, which is expected to feature an iMac G4-style design. Bloomberg reports that the device, referred to as the “Home Pad,” will launch on October 13 with that distinctive aesthetic. Apple is also working to expand HomeKit as part of its broader smart home strategy. A separate report from 9to5Mac confirms the HomePad smart home hub is launching on that date.
Apps & Services
The Halide 3.2 pro camera app has arrived with an iPhone 18 Pro aperture feature and two new looks. Door Dash has unveiled an AI food ordering system that works through Apple’s Messages app, inviting U.S. customers to join a waitlist. The service now lets users order by text in Apple Messages. Apple has also finally launched Apple Pay in India after more than nine years of negotiations.
Entertainment & Deals
A new Apple TV+ comedy titled “Small Prophets” has earned a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score, and a trailer is now available. For bargain hunters, a roundup of deals includes discounts on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, MacBook Pro, Home Kit accessories, and Apple Watch bands starting at $7.