Apple News 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 16, 2026, 9:30 PM ET
Apple Silicon & Hardware Evolution
Reports suggest that while the M6 MacBook Pro, expected later this year, is heavily rumored to introduce touch capabilities to the Mac line, a new report indicates that the MacBook Air will not receive a touchscreen configuration anytime soon MacBook Air adding touchscreen isn’t yet planned. Separately, enthusiasts modifying the new MacBook Neo can reportedly boost sustained clock speeds via a simple thermal pad adjustment, though experts caution against this non-standard procedure for average users MacBook Neo can be modded to run faster. Meanwhile, Apple officially moved the 2012-era iPhone 5 to its obsolete product list, marking the end of support for the first Lightning-equipped smartphone iPhone 5 that launched back in 2012 is now considered obsolete.
AI, Software, and Product Launches
Apple researchers unveiled a novel AI model capable of recreating three-dimensional objects from a single image, with a key advancement being the maintenance of realistic lighting and reflection consistency across various viewing angles recreates 3D objects with realistic lighting effects. On the software front, insights into upcoming releases suggest that iOS 26’s Phone application received an overhaul with several powerful new features that one reviewer claims is indispensable. Furthermore, the controversial Liquid Glass effect, which has drawn criticism since its debut, might see mitigation efforts addressed in iOS, potentially through a dedicated slider control Liquid Glass is divisive now.
Accessory and Service Updates
The recent introduction of the second-generation Air Pods Max headphones, the AirPods Max 2, is tied to the impending launch of iOS 26.4, according to fine print details surrounding the new hardware. These refreshed over-ear headphones retain the core H2 chip and enhanced Active Noise Cancellation but feature a revised Digital Crown with a new function Digital Crown Has a Useful New Feature. In related deals, the previous generation Air Pods Pro 3 are currently discounted on Amazon to $209.99 AirPods Pro 3 Available for $209.99, while steep markdowns continue across Apple's tablet segment, with the iPad 11 dropping to $299 during Amazon’s March sales event.
Enterprise, Media, and Communications
Meta is expanding testing for a new communication feature within WhatsApp, bringing 'guest chats' functionality to beta users on iOS and the web after months of trials on Android, allowing communication with individuals who do not possess an account working on ‘guest chats’ for people without accounts. In the entertainment sector, Apple’s original feature film "F1: The Movie" secured an Academy Award for Best Sound at the recent ceremony. Concerning future hardware, rumors surrounding Apple's first foldable device, the iPhone Fold launching this fall, suggest its design aesthetic merges elements of two highly regarded classic products.
Corporate Moves & Cultural Milestones
Apple’s acquisition of MotionVFX, the Polish firm specializing in effects and plugins for Final Cut Pro, hints at forthcoming feature parity or expansion for the video editing suite on the iPad MotionVFX acquisition hints at new Final Cut Pro features on iPad. In commemoration of the company’s 50th anniversary, the Mimms Museum of Technology and Art in Roswell will open an immersive exhibition titled “iNSPIRE: 50 Years of Innovation from Apple” on April 1st Mimms Museum to celebrate Apple’s 50th anniversary, a moment that coincides with co-founder Ronald Wayne clarifying the true circumstances surrounding his original $800 stake sale story about how the third Apple founder sold out for $800 isn't quite right. Furthermore, Apple has formalized its role as the Official Performance Technology Product Partner for the TCS London Marathon, aligning with its initiative to promote personal achievement partnered with the world's biggest marathon.