Last updated: September 29, 2026, 10:10 PM ET
Apple News
iPhone Duo Pre-Orders
Apple has announced that customers can begin the pre-order setup process for the iPhone Duo on October 12, ahead of the actual pre-order launch on October 16. The company is rolling out a "Get Ready" feature that allows buyers to configure their order in advance, ensuring a smoother checkout experience when sales officially open. The iPhone Duo represents Apple's latest dual-screen form factor, and demand is expected to be high.
Software Updates
Apple released iOS 27.0.1 yesterday, and the company is already previewing three new features arriving in iOS 27.2, including enhanced multitasking tools and improved widget functionality. Separately, Apple shared a new parental controls guide for iOS, developed in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics to help families establish healthy digital habits through Screen Time features.
Hardware Issues
Owners of the iPhone 18 Pro are reporting crackling or popping sounds from the device's speakers, with complaints surfacing on Apple's support forums. Meanwhile, iFixit's teardown of the AirPods 5 reveals that the batteries are now removable, improving repairability, though the charging case remains difficult to open without damaging it.
Apple Pay & App Store Controversy
Apple Pay is reportedly launching in India today, marking a significant expansion into one of the world's largest mobile payment markets. On the regulatory front, Apple faces renewed scrutiny over its removal of ICEBlock from the App Store, with CNN reporting on the controversy surrounding the immigration-tracking app's deletion.
Entertainment & Accessories
Apple TV+ has renewed the French-language drama Carême for a second season. In accessories, Amazon's early fall Prime Day sale is live with deals on MacBooks, AirTag, and MagSafe gear. Apple also released new AirPods beta firmware for the Pro, Pro, and 5th-generation models.
Competition
OpenAI launched Dots agents, an always-on AI assistant designed to rival Meta's Muse, positioning the tool as a persistent productivity companion that integrates across devices.