Apple News

Apple has released a new update to XProtect, its built-in malware protection tool, for all macOS versions.

This update bumps XProtect to version 5351 (from 5347) — the first broad release since early June — and adds fresh detection rules for several threats, including the Boatload stealer family and new osascript-based malware.

As usual, Apple provides no public details on the specific threats addressed. All users should check that the update has installed.

The Eclectic Light Company:
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This version adds six new Yara rules for MACOS.ANGRYORB.OX, MACOS.BOATLOAD.STCRST, MACOS.BOATLOAD.PRIN, MACOS.BOATLOAD.PEME, MACOS.VSHELL.DITA and MACOS.VSHELL.DR, amends rules for MACOS.MISOMAGIC.PA, and tidies spacing for those for MACOS.SOMA.STTX. From the rules for Boatload, that would appear to be a stealer.

Osascript rules in XPScripts.yr gain no less than 14 new rules, and amend those for MACOS.OSASCRIPT.TIPA, MACOS.OSASCRIPT.SYPR, MACOS.OSASCRIPT.TADE and MACOS.OSASCRIPT.REOB.

You can check whether this update has been installed by opening System Information via About This Mac, and selecting the Installations item under Software.

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MacDailyNews Note: More info via the full article here.

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Apple’s Pad mini 7

Apple is preparing a meaningful comeback for its smallest iPad. Fresh reports indicate the next iPad mini will swap its current Liquid Retina LCD for a modern OLED display, delivering the biggest visual and quality leap since the 2021 redesign.

Bloomberg News‘ Mark Gurman suggests the OLED upgrade could land as soon as October.

Expected Upgrades

• Display: 8.4-inch OLED panel with superior contrast, inky blacks, and richer colors compared to the existing model. It will stick to a standard 60Hz refresh rate (not ProMotion) and moderate brightness to help control costs.

• Performance: Likely powered by an A18 Pro chip for snappy everyday use.

• Form Factor: Same beloved ultra-portable design that fits in bags, backpacks, or even larger pockets.

Pricing and Positioning

Expect a noticeable price bump. The current iPad mini already costs around $600 after recent increases, and OLED technology will likely push the new model above $700. At that point it will compete more directly with the iPad Air and even premium iPhones, so Apple will need to emphasize its unique compact appeal for note-taking, reading, travel, and secondary-screen duties.

Launch Timeline

The OLED iPad mini is targeted for a fall 2026 release (likely following the September iPhone event), ahead of more modest refreshes to the base iPad and iPad Air next year.

MacDailyNews Take: iPad mini has felt stagnant for years despite its loyal fans who prize its one-handed usability. This OLED refresh signals Apple is serious about revitalizing the lineup and giving the small tablet a modern edge that matches the rest of its portfolio.

It’s an exciting prospect for anyone who wants premium screen quality without stepping up to a larger, heavier iPad. The higher price may give some pause, but the combination of portability and upgraded visuals could make this the most compelling mini in years.

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Apple TV has announced season five of the award-winning animated kids and family series “Stillwater,” premiering with five new episodes on August 21, 2026.

Apple TV on Thursday announced an all-new season five of the beloved, award-winning animated kids and family series “Stillwater,” premiering with five episodes on Friday, August 21, 2026. Based on the bestselling Scholastic “Zen” book series by Jon J Muth, “Stillwater” follows a wise panda who teaches three young siblings about the world and each other. The series centers on siblings Karl (Judah Mackey), Addy (Eva Ariel Binder) and Michael (Tucker Chandler), who encounter everyday challenges — big and small — which sometimes feel insurmountable. Fortunately for these three, they have Stillwater (James Sie), a wise panda, as their next-door neighbor. Through his example, stories and gentle humor, Stillwater teaches the children the concept of mindfulness, while offering them a deeper understanding of their feelings as well as tools that help them face their own day-to-day challenges. “Stillwater” is produced for Apple TV by Gaumont and Scholastic Entertainment.

Take a deep breath and embrace your inner peace by embarking on a fun adventure with the first four seasons of “Stillwater” available on Apple TV. Through breathing exercises, mindful moments and simple everyday practices, this uplifting, Peabody and Daytime Emmy Award-winning series invites you and your family to discover your own zen through each episode. “Stillwater” was produced through Apple TV’s changemakers initiative in collaboration with awareness and intention expert Mallika Chopra, author of “Buddha and the Rose” and the “Just Be” series for kids.

Apple TV has announced season five of the award-winning animated kids and family series “Stillwater,” premiering with five new episodes on August 21, 2026.

Gaumont and Scholastic Entertainment produce, with Sidonie Dumas, Nicolas Atlan, Terry Kalagian, Iole Lucchese, Caitlin Friedman, Jef Kaminsky, Jun Falkenstein and Rob Hoegee serving as executive producers. In addition, the series features the voice talents of Sie, Binder, Chandler and Mackey.

The exciting slate of recent offerings for kids and families on Apple TV also features “My Brother the Minotaur,” from Academy Award-nominated animation studio Cartoon Saloon and award-winning children’s media company Dog Ears; “Wonder Pets: In the City,” from Emmy Award winner Jennifer Oxley and produced by Nickelodeon Animation; animated adventure trilogy “WondLa,” based on the New York Times bestselling book series “The Search for WondLa” by Tony DiTerlizzi; highly anticipated kids and family series “Yo Gabba GabbaLand!” inspired by the hit, Emmy Award-nominated cultural phenomenon “Yo Gabba Gabba!”; season two of Emmy Award-winning “Shape Island,” based on the internationally bestselling picture books from Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen; animated fantasy adventure series “The Sisters Grimm,” based on Michael Buckley’s New York Times bestselling book series; the music-driven animated comedy series “BE@RBRICK” from DreamWorks Animation; “Goldie,” inspired by Emily Brundige’s award-winning 2019 short film of the same name, and many more.

Award-winning all-ages offerings now streaming globally on Apple TV also include the BAFTA Award and Emmy Award-winning live-action animated hybrid special “The Velveteen Rabbit,” BAFTA Award and Humanitas Prize-winning “El Deafo,” BAFTA Award-winning “Lovely Little Farm,” “Duck & Goose,” “Get Rolling With Otis,” Spin Master Entertainment’s “Sago Mini Friends,” Emmy Award-winning “Frog and Toad,” based on the Caldecott and Newbery Honor-winning books, Annie Award-nominated “Not a Box,” GLAAD Media Award-nominated “Pinecone & Pony,” The Jim Henson Company’s Emmy Award-winning “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock,” “Harriet the Spy” and “Slumberkins,” Sesame Workshop’s “Helpsters,” Joseph Gordon-Levitt, HITRECORD and Bento Box Entertainment’s “Wolfboy and the Everything Factory,” Jack McBrayer and Angela C. Santomero’s and Emmy Award-nominated “Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show.” Live-action offerings include “Me,” an elevated cinematic coming-of-age story from Barry L. Levy, Bonnie Hunt’s DGA Award and WGA Award-nominated “Amber Brown,” DGA Award-winning “Best Foot Forward,” “Surfside Girls,” WGA Award-winning “Life By Ella,” Sesame Workshop and Sinking Ship’s Emmy Award-winning “Ghostwriter,” Emmy Award and Environmental Media Association Award-winning “Jane,” and Scholastic’s “Puppy Place.” “Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth,” the Emmy Award-winning television event based on the New York Times bestselling book and TIME Best Book of the Year by Oliver Jeffers, is also featured.

Apple TV offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all of a user’s favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have been honored with 850 wins and 3,737 award nominations and counting including multi-Emmy Award-winning and history-making comedies “The Studio” and “Ted Lasso,” global cultural phenomenon “Severance,” Apple’s most-viewed drama “Pluribus,” Academy Award Best Picture winner “CODA” and Academy Award winner “F1,” the highest-grossing sports feature of all time.

MacDailyNews Note: Apple TV is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $12.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV for free.

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In a major boost to American domestic manufacturing, the Trump Administration today announced that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is committing an additional $100 billion in investments for advanced semiconductor facilities in the United States. This brings TSMC’s total planned investment to $265 billion — one of the largest foreign direct investments in American history.

The announcement, made jointly by the White House and the Department of Commerce, highlights the success of strategic trade and investment partnerships, particularly the historic U.S.-Taiwan deal signed in January 2026. As a direct result, TSMC will build four additional advanced semiconductor manufacturing and packaging facilities, bringing its U.S. footprint to 12 leading-edge facilities, primarily in Arizona.

Building on Momentum

This latest expansion builds on previous commitments. TSMC’s original plans started at around $65 billion, which were later increased. The new infusion underscores sustained momentum under the current administration’s focus on reshoring critical supply chains.

In a statement, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick emphasized the job-creating impact, “President Trump’s leadership is driving companies to invest in American manufacturing. TSMC’s announcement of an additional $100 billion investment following our historic deal on trade and investment with Taiwan will create tens of thousands of American jobs and bring advanced semiconductor manufacturing back to America.”

TSMC Chairman and CEO Dr. C.C. Wei echoed the sentiment, crediting collaboration with the administration and strong U.S. customer demand, “We appreciate the strong collaboration and support of the Trump Administration, Secretary Lutnick and our leading U.S. customers… This is to support the strong multi-year demand from our leading U.S. customers, and we believe this investment will further foster the development of the U.S. semiconductor ecosystem, strengthen the supply chain, and support significant job creation in the United States.”

Economic and Strategic Impact

The investments are expected to generate significant construction and high-tech jobs, along with billions in indirect economic output. Beyond direct facilities, the broader U.S.-Taiwan trade and investment framework is catalyzing an additional $500 billion in Taiwanese investments — $250 billion in direct semiconductor and related enterprises, plus another $250 billion to strengthen the full supply chain in the U.S.

This move addresses long-standing concerns about reliance on overseas production for advanced chips, especially those critical for AI, defense, automotive, and consumer electronics. By expanding domestic capacity with a world-leading foundry like TSMC, the U.S. strengthens its position in the global semiconductor race while creating high-paying opportunities for American workers.

The Trump Administration’s approach, which combines diplomatic deals, incentives for onshoring, and a focus on national security, continues to yield concrete results in rebuilding America’s industrial base.
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MacDailyNews Take: With 12 state-of-the-art facilities on track, America is poised to capture a much larger share of advanced chip production. This not only bolsters economic competitiveness, but also enhances supply chain resilience against geopolitical risks.

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iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max feature a thermal management system that includes an Apple-designed vapor chamber, delivering exceptional performance.

Apple has significantly boosted its orders for vapor chamber cooling systems, primarily to support production of its highly anticipated first foldable iPhone, according to a Chinese supply chain leaker. The move also points to advanced thermal management in the company’s upcoming Twentieth Anniversary iPhone slated for 2027.

The information comes from the Weibo account “Fixed Focus Digital,” a source that has previously shared details about Apple’s foldable device. The increased orders will first go toward manufacturing the book-style foldable iPhone, internally referred to as the “iPhone Ultra,” which is on track for a September 2026 debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup.

Apple has reportedly instructed suppliers to prepare around 10 million units of the foldable iPhone for 2026, an increase from earlier projections of 7–8 million. This ramp-up signals strong confidence in the device’s production readiness despite the complexities of its folding mechanism.

Advanced Cooling for a Challenging Form Factor

Fixed Focus Digital previously indicated that the foldable iPhone would feature “impressive” vapor chamber cooling, with Apple “going all out” on its thermal design. This makes sense given the device’s expected thin profile when unfolded (rumored around 4.5–5mm) and the space constraints of a foldable chassis, which could limit traditional heat dissipation options.

Apple first introduced vapor chamber technology in the iPhone 17 Pro models last year. The system uses a small amount of deionized water to efficiently transfer heat away from the powerful A-series chip and spread it across the device’s aluminum frame, helping sustain high performance without thermal throttling.

The same cooling approach is now expected to extend to the foldable iPhone Ultra and potentially the 2027 anniversary iPhones, which are rumored to feature dramatic edge-to-edge displays with glass curving around all four sides for a nearly borderless look.

Broader Context and Timeline

The foldable iPhone is expected to include a 7.8-inch inner display, a 5.5-inch cover screen, an A20 chip, and a Touch ID power button, with pricing likely starting near $2,000. Recent reports confirm that mass production is underway, with key components like OLED panels already in production at Samsung Display.

Meanwhile, Apple’s 20th-anniversary iPhones are planned for two sizes similar to the iPhone 18 Pro models. These devices could mark a major redesign, potentially returning to an all-glass enclosure.

MacDailyNews Take: This latest leak aligns with Apple’s aggressive push into new form factors while maintaining the performance and reliability standards users expect from its flagship devices. As the September launch approaches, more details on the iPhone Ultra’s final specifications are likely to emerge from the supply chain.

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Apple is preparing to introduce advertising to its Maps app in the United States and Canada this summer, but the company has drawn some distinctly Apple-style lines in the sand about who gets to advertise there.

In a new Advertising Services policy update, Apple explicitly prohibits several ad categories from appearing in search results and Suggested Places within Maps. The banned list includes home services such as plumbing, electrical work, locksmithing, HVAC repairs, pest control, roofing, and general contracting. Also off-limits: bail bond services and cryptocurrency ATMs.

Medical service ads will be considered on a case-by-case basis, which is Apple’s polite way of saying “we’ll let you know if your ad passes our vibe check.”

The restrictions set Apple Maps apart from Google Maps, where home services represent one of the biggest local advertising categories. While Google happily serves up sponsored results for roofers and plumbers, Apple appears intent on keeping its Maps experience focused on businesses users can actually use Maps to visit without needing a hard hat or a getaway driver.

Apple’s broader advertising rules remain in force as well — no ads for weapons, controlled substances, political campaigns, or anything that competes with (or knocks off) Apple products. (Sorry, Samsung. Not sorry.) The company also continues its long-standing bans on deceptive claims, discriminatory content, and anything it deems offensive or controversial.

Ads in Maps will carry a clear “Ad” label, and Apple emphasizes that user location data and ad interactions will not be tied to Apple IDs or shared with third parties.The move comes months after Apple first announced plans for Maps monetization as part of its Apple Business platform. While many users have already expressed dread at the arrival of ads in what was previously a relatively clean navigation experience, the selective restrictions have sparked a mix of reactions — ranging from relief that emergency “my basement is flooding” searches won’t be interrupted by sponsored plumbing offers, to mild confusion about why perfectly legal (if occasionally sketchy) services are getting the boot.
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MacDailyNews Take: In typical Apple fashion, the company is threading the needle between revenue generation and maintaining its reputation for curation. The result? A Maps app that will happily tell you where to get the best latte, but won’t lift a finger to help you when your kitchen sink stages a rebellion.

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Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), a major Apple supplier and the world’s largest contract chipmaker, has reported an outstanding second-quarter performance that underscores the relentless momentum in the artificial intelligence sector.

According to Reuters, TSMC posted a 77% jump in second-quarter net profit on Thursday, beating market forecasts and hitting a record high, driven by surging global demand for its artificial intelligence processors.

“TSMC, the world’s largest contract chipmaker, posted a 77% jump in second-quarter net profit on Thursday, beating market forecasts and hitting a record, riding the wave of surging global demand for its artificial intelligence processors,” Reuters reports.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. saw April-June net profit rise to T$706.6 billion ($21.99 billion).

The results significantly outperformed expectations. The profit handily beat a T$632.6 billion LSEG SmartEstimate, which is weighted toward forecasts from analysts who are more consistently accurate.

MacDailyNews Take: This strong performance highlights TSMC’s pivotal role in the global semiconductor supply chain, powering everything from advanced AI chips to consumer electronics. As demand for high-performance computing continues to accelerate (particularly for AI applications) TSMC’s results signal robust health not just for the company, but for the broader tech ecosystem.

TSMC’s record quarter serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the global economy.

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Apple has rolled out its official 2026 sales tax holiday guide, giving shoppers in select U.S. states a timely opportunity to purchase popular products like Macs, iPads, iPhones, and accessories without paying state sales tax. The promotions vary widely by state in terms of dates, eligible items, and spending caps, so timing and research are key to maximizing savings.

When the Tax Holidays Hit

The savings windows open soon and stretch through mid-August:

• Alabama: July 17–19 (with a $1,173 total limit; local taxes may still apply)

• Florida: July 20–August 20 (the longest period, with a $1,500 cap per computer or accessory)

• New Mexico & Tennessee: July 31–August 2

• West Virginia: July 31–August 3

• Arkansas: August 1–2

• Missouri, South Carolina & Virginia: August 7–9

• Massachusetts: August 8–9

Purchases can be made online through Apple or in physical stores, though tax relief may appear on the final receipt rather than at checkout.

What Qualifies Where?

Eligibility rules differ significantly, creating big opportunities in some states and more limited ones in others:

• Arkansas stands out with the most generous terms: nearly all Apple products—including Macs, iPads, iPhones, Apple Vision Pro, printers, and many accessories—qualify with no price limit.

• Massachusetts allows most individual items up to $2,500 each, and you can buy multiple qualifying items in one transaction.

• Florida and Missouri cap computers and accessories at $1,500 per item.

• Tennessee applies a $1,500 limit to the combined total of a computer plus eligible accessories.

• New Mexico sets lower thresholds: $1,000 for computers and $500 for related hardware.

• West Virginia restricts savings to iPads priced at $500 or less.

• Virginia is the most limited, covering only cell phone chargers and batteries up to $60.

• Alabama has its $1,173 overall cap.

Some states also tie accessory eligibility to purchasing a main device or require school-related use, so checking Apple’s state-specific details is essential.
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MacDailyNews Take: Apple’s tax holiday page provides full breakdowns and qualifying product lists to help customers plan ahead. Whether you’re eyeing a new MacBook for work, an iPad for school, or everyday accessories, these limited-time windows could deliver meaningful discounts depending on your state.

Shoppers should act within their state’s dates and review the fine print to ensure their intended purchases qualify. For the complete list and terms, visit Apple’s dedicated 2026 Tax Holiday page here.

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Major League Soccer resumes its regular season in July after a summer of international soccer.

Major League Soccer (MLS) returns to Apple TV tomorrow, July 16, as regular-season play resumes and the league welcomes fans back following a monthlong break for the FIFA World Cup.

Apple TV subscribers in more than 100 countries and regions can watch every MLS match with no blackouts. Subscribers also receive comprehensive coverage and analysis, exclusive content, and access to matches beyond the regular season, including the annual Leagues Cup tournament, Michelob ULTRA Campeones Cup, MLS All-Star Game, and Audi MLS Cup Playoffs.

All 30 clubs return to action following the World Cup Final, with six marquee matchups scheduled across July 16 and 17. Highlights include the Cascadia Cup rivalry between the Seattle Sounders and Portland Timbers, a Southern showdown between Nashville SC and Atlanta United FC, and the latest edition of El Tráfico featuring the LA Galaxy and Los Angeles Football Club.

Major League Soccer returns on July 16, with every match streaming live on Apple TV.

A record 45 MLS players, representing 22 clubs and 17 countries, participated in the 2026 World Cup, with many expected to return to their clubs this week as the league resumes regular-season play. Among them are eight players who represented the United States, including Vancouver Whitecaps FC midfielder Sebastian Berhalter, who helped the U.S. achieve its best group-stage finish at the World Cup. The group also includes Columbus Crew defender Steven Moreira, who started every match for Cape Verde as the Blue Sharks made an unforgettable run to the round of 32 in the nation’s first-ever World Cup, and nine Canadian internationals, led by Orlando City SC goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau, who played every minute of Canada’s historic tournament as the nation earned its first World Cup victory and advanced to the knockout stage for the first time.

Other MLS players also made history at the World Cup, led by soccer icon and Inter Miami CF captain Lionel Messi, who further cemented his legacy by becoming the tournament’s all-time leading scorer. Messi has scored eight goals while captaining Argentina in its pursuit of a second consecutive World Cup title.

New international stars add even more excitement to the MLS restart this summer. Antoine Griezmann, the decorated French international and 2018 World Cup champion, has joined Orlando City SC after spending 10 seasons with Spanish giant Atlético Madrid, where he became the club’s all-time leading scorer. Scottish goalkeeper Angus Gunn, who started all three of his nation’s World Cup matches, has joined the San Jose Earthquakes, while Polish striker and global soccer icon Robert Lewandowski signed with the Chicago Fire during the summer transfer window.

On July 16, Lewandowski will face longtime FC Bayern Munich teammate Thomas Müller, now with the Vancouver Whitecaps, when Chicago hosts Vancouver at Soldier Field. The matchup reunites one of soccer’s most prolific attacking duos, adding another marquee storyline to the MLS season. EA SPORTS FC Mobile players can watch the match live through a simulcast of Apple TV’s broadcast on FCM TV, the game’s in-app streaming platform. Eligible EA SPORTS FC 26 and EA SPORTS FC Mobile players can also get in-game access to a one-month free trial of Apple TV.

Stay Up to Date with Major League Soccer on Apple Sports

Fans can stay on top of the latest scores, stats, and standings for their favorite clubs throughout the MLS season on the free Apple Sports app for iPhone. Users can easily navigate between scores and upcoming matches; explore visual lineup formations, play-by-play information, and team stats; and tap to watch matches on the Apple TV app.

Apple Fitness+ Time to Walk with Thomas Müller

Time to Walk is an Apple Fitness+ audio experience for iPhone and Apple Watch, designed to help people walk more often by featuring guests who share stories, photos, and songs that have shaped their lives. The new episode invites listeners to walk with German soccer legend and Vancouver Whitecaps star Thomas Müller as he reflects on the hard work he put in before his career took off and shares why he welcomes the challenge of big life changes.

More Ways to Celebrate the Return of MLS

On Apple Music, fans can enjoy exclusive club- and player-curated selections, including a new Warm-Up Playlist for Real Salt Lake star Diego Luna. Fans can also look forward to more exclusive music content coming throughout the season, including playlists from Inter Miami’s Dayne St. Clair and Vancouver Whitecaps’ Sebastian Berhalter — fresh off their return from the World Cup. Explore the Sounds of MLS playlists on Apple Music at apple.co/AM-MLS.

Apple Maps users can explore dedicated Matchday Guides created by MLS clubs and city guides created by players to find recommendations for local restaurants to catch a game, explore city favorites, get detailed information about their stadiums, and more.

To mark the return of Major League Soccer, adidas will host a two-day celebration at the adidas Home of Soccer in Brooklyn, New York, on July 16 and 17, featuring watch parties, appearances by MLS players, an MLS jersey showcase, and additional fan experiences.
Apple TV offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all of a user’s favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut.

Commercial establishments now have multiple ways to bring Apple TV’s live sports portfolio to their patrons. With DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS, customers can also access Apple TV’s live sports programming at more than 300,000 sports bars, restaurants, hotels, and other commercial venues. EverPass offers commercial establishments access to Apple TV’s complete live sports portfolio — including every MLS match, Formula 1 in the U.S., and “Friday Night Baseball” — through its EverPass Core package.
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MacDailyNews Note: Apple TV is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $12.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV for free.

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Apple is quietly shopping for AI chip companies. According to a new report from The Information, the company has been approaching chip startups and consulting with bankers about potential acquisitions — a notable shift for a firm long known for its reluctance to make big hardware buys.

The move comes as Apple grapples with limitations in its current AI infrastructure. Its Private Cloud Compute servers, which power parts of Apple Intelligence, currently rely on internally designed M2 Ultra chips. These have proven insufficient for handling larger, more demanding AI models.

The Siri Overhaul Problem

One concrete example stands out: Apple has been working on a major Siri overhaul powered in part by Google’s Gemini models through a partnership. When engineers tried running these advanced models on Apple’s own servers, the M-series hardware fell short. As a result, more complex Siri tasks are now routing through Nvidia GPUs hosted in Google’s cloud infrastructure.

This dependency clashes with Apple’s long-standing preference for controlling its own silicon and protecting user privacy through on-device and Private Cloud Compute processing.

Baltra Delayed

Internally, Apple has been developing its first dedicated AI server chip, codenamed Baltra. The company had originally targeted a 2026 launch, but the timeline has slipped. Baltra is designed as a purpose-built server ASIC (with Broadcom contributing key networking and interconnect technology) to reduce reliance on third-party GPUs for cloud AI workloads.

The reported pursuit of acquisitions suggests Apple wants to accelerate progress on its next-generation server silicon — either by bringing in specialized talent and IP or by acquiring teams that have already solved similar challenges.

A Rare Shift in M&A Approach

Apple has historically avoided large acquisitions, preferring to build technology in-house. Its most recent notable deal was the January 2026 acquisition of Israeli audio AI startup Q.ai (reportedly valued around $2 billion). With roughly $45.6 billion in cash and cash equivalents as of late March 2026, Apple certainly has the financial firepower if it chooses to move.

This new interest in chip startups marks a pragmatic acknowledgment that the AI hardware race — particularly in data center-scale inference and training — moves extremely fast. While Apple excels at designing efficient mobile and laptop chips, scaling specialized AI accelerators for servers is a different challenge that hyperscalers like Google, Amazon, and Meta have been tackling for years.

Broader Context

This development comes just days after Apple announced a major multi-year expansion of its partnership with Broadcom, worth more than $30 billion. The deal includes custom silicon components and supports U.S. manufacturing expansion in Colorado. It underscores Apple’s broader push to strengthen its custom silicon capabilities while also highlighting how much it still relies on external partners for certain advanced technologies.

What It Means

If Apple follows through on acquisitions, it could help close the gap in its cloud AI infrastructure faster than organic development alone would allow. Success here would support more ambitious on-device and private-cloud AI features without heavy dependence on external clouds and GPUs.

It would also represent a meaningful evolution in Apple’s strategy: from a company that largely designs its own chips from scratch to one willing to acquire specialized expertise to stay competitive in the AI era.

The coming months will reveal whether these discussions lead to actual deals — and whether they can meaningfully accelerate Apple’s ability to run sophisticated AI models on its own terms.

MacDailyNews Take: The mad scramble to catch up continues. Hopefully, new Apple CEO John Ternus can quickly kick things back into high gear after far too many years of coasting along in neutral.

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Devid Striesow, Axel Stein, Heike Makatsch and Torben Liebrecht in “Where’s Wanda?” season two, premiering October 21, 2026 on Apple TV.

Apple TV on Wednesday revealed first look images and the season two premiere date for celebrated German-language dark comedy series “Where’s Wanda?” Produced by UFA Fiction, the eight-episode season stars International Emmy Award nominee Heike Makatsch (“Love Actually”), German Comedy Award winner Axel Stein (“The Vault”), multiple award-winning actress Lea Drinda (“The Gryphon”), Leo Simon, and Nikeata Thompson (“Späti”). Season two will make its global debut on Apple TV with one episode on Wednesday, October 21, followed by a new episode weekly through Wednesday, December 9, 2026.

In season two, the Klatts (Makatsch and Stein) are back! Just as they thought their lives were finally returning to normal, their daughter, Wanda (Drinda), is caught seemingly red-handed standing over a dead body. They will need to do everything in their power to prove her innocence and avoid losing her again, as their investigation to find the real murderer takes them into the criminal underbelly of their sleepy suburban town. But will their quest to protect their family get them all out of trouble, or ultimately lead them further astray? And can they find out the truth of what happened on that fateful day before it’s too late?

Hailing from UFA Fiction, a Fremantle company, “Where’s Wanda?” season two is created, written and executive produced by Royal Television Society nominee Oliver Lansley (“Flack”), alongside multiple award-winning executive producer Nataly Kudiabor (“Arthur’s Law”) and Oliver Ossege (“Helgoland 513”). The series was co-created and based on a story by Zoltan Spirandelli (“Vaya con Dios”) and is directed by critically acclaimed, award-winning filmmakers Tobi Baumann (“Faking Hitler”) and Christian Ditter (“How To Be Single”).

Following its global debut, “Where’s Wanda?” has been hailed as an “electrifying,” “standout” series keeping “viewers on the edge of their seats” with “a unique blend of dark comedy and suspense,” and featuring “immensely likable, and often affecting performances” by its “talented cast.” Season one achieved a rare perfect 100% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes. Fans applaud the “beautiful” show as the “kind of gem Apple only seems capable of creating” and “a compelling new addition” to Apple TV’s “expanding international offerings.”

Apple TV offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all of a user’s favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have been honored with 850 wins and 3,737 award nominations and counting including multi-Emmy Award-winning and history-making comedies “The Studio” and “Ted Lasso,” global cultural phenomenon “Severance,” Apple’s most-viewed drama “Pluribus,” Academy Award Best Picture winner “CODA” and Academy Award winner “F1,” the highest-grossing sports feature of all time.

MacDailyNews Note: Apple TV is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $12.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV for free.

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The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released its Producer Price Index (PPI) data for June 2026 today, showing a 0.3% decline in the index for final demand on a seasonally adjusted basis. This marks a reversal from the 0.6% rise in May and the stronger 1.1% increase in April. U.S. inflation is coming down.

On a year-over-year basis, producer prices rose 5.5% through June, down from the recent peak of 6.5% in May. This moderation comes amid cooling energy prices and could provide some relief to businesses and consumers facing persistent inflationary pressures.

Key Breakdowns from the June Report

• Goods prices led the decline, falling 1.4% in June — the largest drop since July 2022. Energy prices plunged 6.4%, with gasoline down 12.0%, diesel fuel, jet fuel, and crude petroleum also posting notable decreases.

• Food prices for final demand edged down 0.6%.

• Goods less foods and energy (a core measure) actually rose modestly by 0.2%.

• Services prices increased 0.2%, supported by gains in trade services margins (up 0.4%), including a sharp 13.0% jump in fuels and lubricants retailing. Transportation and warehousing services dipped slightly by 0.1%.

The index for final demand less foods, energy, and trade services — often watched as a core gauge — rose just 0.1% in June after a stronger 0.8% gain in May. Year-over-year, this core measure increased 5.1%.

What’s Driving the Decline?

The drop aligns with falling global oil prices in recent weeks, which have rippled through the supply chain. Energy categories, which had fueled earlier PPI gains (notably from Middle East tensions boosting costs earlier in the year), reversed course. This pullback in wholesale prices could eventually feed into lower consumer prices in the coming months, though services inflation remains sticky.

Implications for the Federal Reserve and Markets

This softer-than-expected PPI reading arrives on the same day as other inflation data and comes as the Fed monitors progress toward its 2% target. While headline producer inflation has cooled from its recent highs, the year-over-year figure remains elevated compared to pre-pandemic norms. Policymakers will likely view the energy-driven decline positively, but persistent services and core pressures suggest caution on rate cuts.

For businesses, lower input costs (especially energy) could help margins. Consumers may see relief at the pump and eventually in goods prices, though everyday services like healthcare, housing-related costs, and certain retail margins continue to trend upward.

Looking Ahead

The June PPI data suggests inflation is not accelerating, but the path to sustainably lower levels remains uneven. Markets will now turn to upcoming CPI releases and other indicators for a fuller picture. Keep an eye on energy markets — any rebound in oil prices could quickly reverse these gains.

Combined with yesterday’s CPI data decline (see below), the PPI data supports a story of disinflation under the Trump administration. This is likely helpful to Republicans heading into the midterm elections, as voters generally reward perceived economic competence.

U.S. CPI data (July 14, 2026) showed a notable decline:

• Monthly change: -0.4% (biggest monthly drop since April 2020)
• Annual inflation rate: 3.5% (down from 4.2% in May)
• Core CPI (excluding food & energy): Unchanged (0.0%) in June, down from +0.2% in May
• Core annual rate: 2.6% (down from 2.9% in May)

This is net positive for Apple’s long-term outlook. Tech giants like Apple tend to be among the biggest winners when inflation cools enough for the Fed to cut rates without triggering a recession. Wall Street will likely view this data favorably for growth stocks like AAPL.

MacDailyNews Note: Data sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Producer Price Indexes release for June 2026. All figures are seasonally adjusted unless noted.

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With its new architecture and capabilities, the next generation of Apple Intelligence powers helpful features across the system, simplifying the things users do every day.

China’s cyberspace regulator has officially registered Apple’s on-device generative AI service, Apple Intelligence, for use in the country. This marks a significant step toward the long-awaited launch of the feature for Chinese consumers.

According to Reuters, “China’s cyberspace regulator said on Wednesday that Apple’s on-device generative AI service, Apple Intelligence, has been registered for use on iPhones in China, paving the way for the long-anticipated rollout of the service in the country.”

China mandates that companies register large language models and generative AI services with regulators before making them available to the public. This approval positions Apple to finally introduce its AI capabilities in one of its most important markets.

The service will integrate local AI expertise. Reuters reports, “Apple Intelligence will incorporate capabilities from AI models developed by Baidu and Alibaba, a source familiar with the matter said, speaking on condition of anonymity.”

Alibaba confirmed its involvement in a statement to Reuters: “Its Qwen model will be integrated into Apple Intelligence across Apple’s iPhone (iOS), iPad (iPadOS), Mac (macOS) and Vision Pro (visionOS) operating systems in China.”

A Baidu spokesperson also noted, “Apple is also working with Baidu to develop Apple Intelligence features for Chinese iPhone users.”

The regulator’s statement provided no specific launch date for Apple Intelligence in China.

This development comes at a crucial time for Apple in China, where the company reported a 24.4% year-on-year increase in shipments in the second quarter. The rollout of Apple Intelligence could further strengthen its competitive position in a market where consumers have eagerly awaited these AI features.

MacDailyNews Take: Clearly good news for Apple and should be for Apple’s – and Alibaba’s – stock prices, too.

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Apple’s HomePod

OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, the AI for newbies who don’t know better alternatives exist, is stepping into consumer hardware with its first device: a movable, screen-free smart speaker designed as an always-on AI companion for the home. According to a Bloomberg News report, the product — still in development — aims to control smart-home devices, play media, answer questions, handle messages, and leverage ChatGPT’s capabilities.

This sounds innovative on paper, especially with the promise of a more “humanlike” AI presence. But let’s be clear: Amazon, Google, and Apple pioneered this category years ago. OpenAI isn’t breaking new ground here — it’s trying to catch up to a market these giants have dominated for nearly a decade.

Apple’s HomePod mini

The Smart Speaker Revolution Started Long Before ChatGPT

Amazon lit the fuse in 2014 with the original Echo and Alexa. What began as a cylindrical speaker that could play music, set timers, and answer basic questions quickly evolved into a full ecosystem. Echo devices now control lights, thermostats, door locks, and more — exactly the smart-home hub role OpenAI envisions. Amazon iterated relentlessly with cheaper Dots, portable versions, and premium models, shipping hundreds of millions of units and embedding Alexa into countless third-party devices.

Google followed in 2016 with Google Home (later Nest Audio and similar), emphasizing superior search integration and natural language understanding powered by its vast data resources. These speakers became central to many households for information, entertainment, and automation. Apple entered the fray in 2018 with the HomePod, focusing on premium audio quality and tight integration with its ecosystem, later adding the more affordable HomePod mini.

By the time OpenAI is targeting a potential 2027 launch for its device, smart speakers will have been mainstream for over a dozen years. The core features OpenAI highlights — voice interaction, media playback, smart-home control, and AI assistance — are table stakes that consumers already expect.

What’s New (or Not So New) with OpenAI’s Approach?

The Bloomberg News description by Mark Gurman positions OpenAI’s speaker as a “new type of home computer for the AI era,” movable and screen-free for ambient use.

Earlier reports suggest possible camera integration for environmental awareness, object recognition, and even facial recognition for purchases — features that echo (pun intended) what existing devices already offer or are evolving toward. Many current smart speakers and displays already include cameras, microphones that listen continuously (with privacy toggles), and advanced AI for proactive suggestions.

OpenAI’s edge is presumably its cutting-edge language models, potentially enabling more conversational, context-aware interactions than today’s assistants. Yet even here, competitors aren’t standing still: Google has integrated Gemini, Amazon continues enhancing Alexa with generative AI, and Apple is finally significantly deepening Siri with on-device intelligence in its ecosystem.

Privacy Concerns Loom Large, Especially Versus Apple

One area where OpenAI’s entry raises fresh questions is privacy. An always-listening, camera-equipped AI companion that processes conversations, surroundings, and potentially personal interactions could amass intimate data about users’ daily lives. OpenAI has faced broader scrutiny over how it handles training data and user inputs with its models, and a device that lives in the home would amplify those risks — including potential data sharing, advertising uses, or breaches.

In contrast, Apple has long positioned itself as a privacy leader in the smart speaker space. HomePod devices prioritize on-device processing where possible, use randomized identifiers instead of linking data to user accounts, and offer straightforward controls to delete Siri history. Apple’s ecosystem design generally minimizes cloud transmission and avoids using customer data for ad targeting in the same way its competitors do. OpenAI, as a newer hardware player heavily reliant on cloud-based AI, will need to earn similar trust — something that could prove challenging given the always-on nature of the proposed companion.

Challenges Ahead for the Newcomer

OpenAI enters a crowded, mature market where hardware margins are thin, privacy concerns run high, and user loyalty to existing ecosystems (Amazon for shopping, Google for search, Apple for seamless device handoff) is strong. Building reliable hardware at scale, managing always-listening microphones and potential cameras responsibly, and competing on price (rumored $200–$300 range) won’t be trivial.

History shows that smart speakers succeeded because they solved simple, everyday problems affordably and reliably — not because they promised revolutionary AI companionship. OpenAI’s version may feel more “alive” thanks to advanced models, but it risks being perceived as a me-too product unless it delivers truly standout experiences that justify switching or adding yet another device to the home.
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MacDailyNews Take: In the smart speaker space, OpenAI following well-trodden footsteps laid by Amazon, Google, and Apple. The real test will be whether ChatGPT can make the familiar feel fresh enough to stand out — while addressing privacy headwinds that Apple has long navigated more cautiously.

Our prediction is that it won’t.

OpenAI has always been skeevy, from eschewing its open source roots to Sam Altman to desperately overpaying for a washed Jony Ive. Just plain skeevy.

If ever a Skynet would arise, we expect it would spring from the diseased loins of OpenAI. – MacDailyNews, July 13, 2026

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In a significant victory for Apple, a U.S. federal judge has dismissed a proposed class-action lawsuit accusing the company of failing to prevent the spread of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) through its iCloud storage service. The ruling relies heavily on Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which shields online platforms from liability for user-generated content.

U.S. District Judge Noël Wise in San Jose, California, issued the decision late Monday, agreeing with Apple’s position that it is immune from the claims. The plaintiffs alleged that Apple did not take sufficient action to stop images of their childhood sexual abuse from being stored and shared on iCloud.

Key Details from the Case

The lawsuit, filed in 2024 by two plaintiffs using the pseudonyms Amy and Jessica, represented a class of 2,680 individuals with similar claims. It sought up to $32.8 billion in compensatory damages and a court order requiring changes to iCloud.

Judge Wise ruled that the claims treated Apple as an online publisher responsible for user content, placing them squarely under Section 230 protections. She emphasized, “Nothing in federal law requires Apple to proactively utilize available technology or develop new technology to identify and report child sexual abuse material on its cloud platform.”

In a notable statement, the judge added, “Lawmakers can fix this problem that is contributing to the exploitation of children. This Court cannot.”

The case was dismissed with prejudice, meaning the plaintiffs cannot refile it.

Background and Apple’s Position

The suit claimed Apple knew about CSAM issues on iCloud, but chose not to deploy available detection tools. It referenced Apple’s 2021 announcement of the NeuralHash program for identifying such material, which was later abandoned in favor of end-to-end encryption—making detection more difficult. Apple has maintained that it has worked diligently to combat CSAM while prioritizing user privacy and security.

James Marsh, an attorney for the plaintiffs, said they are considering an appeal and exploring other legal avenues. He noted, “While the plaintiffs disagree with the judge’s conclusion on the law, we agree with her conclusion that Congress should do more to protect children online and address the skyrocketing harms from online exploitation.”

Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Broader Context

This ruling highlights ongoing debates over Section 230 and tech companies’ responsibilities regarding harmful content. Apple faces a similar lawsuit from West Virginia’s attorney general, described as the first of its kind by a government agency targeting iCloud’s role in CSAM distribution.

MacDailyNews Take: For those unfamiliar with the NeuralHash debacle, over which we were vehemently opposed, more here.

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Apple’s all-new Siri AI. An even more capable AI assistant with expanded intelligence to be more helpful every day.

Apple is exploring new ways to keep AI processing on users’ devices, prioritizing speed, privacy, and reduced reliance on the cloud. The company is in early discussions with PrismML, a startup developing technology that dramatically compresses large AI models to fit and run efficiently on iPhones.

According to PrismML CEO Babak Hassibi, who spoke to CNBC, Apple and other companies have been evaluating the startup’s models, measuring their speed, energy efficiency, and performance on devices. “They’re really evaluating our technology right now,” Hassibi said of Apple. He described the discussions as very early but noted that “things are progressing nicely.”

Shrinking Massive Models for Everyday Devices

PrismML, a Khosla Ventures-backed spinout from the California Institute of Technology, recently released compressed versions of Alibaba’s open-source Qwen model. The company reduced the model from roughly 54 GB to less than 4 GB, enabling all 27 billion parameters to run on an iPhone 15 or newer.

The compression technique simplifies how internal information is stored—reducing values from 16 bits to just one or three possible values. PrismML claims the compressed models use 10 to 15 times less memory, generate responses six to eight times faster, and consume three to six times less energy than conventional versions.

Hassibi acknowledged a small performance trade-off: “PrismML’s models typically lose a few percentage points of overall performance, with factual recall weakening before skills such as reasoning, math and coding.” Despite this, the company is releasing two compressed versions for free, designed to run on iPhones, MacBooks, and Nvidia-powered PCs.

Boosting Siri and On-Device Capabilities

This development aligns closely with Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance Siri. Just before PrismML’s release, Apple opened the public beta of iOS 27, introducing a major overhaul aimed at making Siri more competitive with offerings from xAI, OpenAI, and Anthropic — while emphasizing on-device processing for personal data.

Running more AI locally would bring several benefits:

• Reduced latency compared to cloud requests
• Lower cloud computing costs
• Support for features that work offline
• Stronger privacy protections, especially for sensitive health, medication, or personal information

Carolina Milanesi, president and principal analyst at Creative Strategies, told CNBC: “The more you can do on device, the better it is,” highlighting applications like computational photography, video generation, and health tools.

Analysts note Apple’s integrated hardware-software approach gives it an edge in optimizing these models. Horace Dediu of Asymco explained that Apple aims to keep most common Siri interactions on-device while routing only the most demanding tasks to the cloud. “They’re trying to figure out how big a model and how clever a model they can fit on the device,” he said.

Potential Industry Impact and Caveats

If PrismML’s technology proves effective at scale, it could influence memory requirements and datacenter demands. However, analysts caution that real-world performance — especially on lengthy prompts, multitasking, battery life, and millions of queries — remains to be fully validated.

Tarun Pathak of Counterpoint Research emphasized: “The ultimate test will be millions of queries, thousands of device combinations and robust testing at scale.” Phil Solis of IDC pointed to power consumption as a key open question for always-on or agent-like features.

Hassibi sees broader applications beyond phones, including robotics and autonomous systems where fast, local intelligence is critical: “It’s very important that the intelligence be local and that it can run fast.”

Pathak summed up the balanced future: “The combination of cloud and on-device AI can serve a more complete, efficient and privacy-centric AI experience. Complex tasks will be offloaded to the cloud, whereas sensitive, latency-critical and privacy-relevant tasks will be executed on-device.”

MacDailyNews Take: Apple’s interest in technologies like PrismML underscores its commitment to privacy as a core differentiator while pushing the boundaries of what smartphones can achieve with AI. As testing continues, this could mark a significant step toward more capable, personal, and private intelligent assistants.

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macOS 27 Golden Gate

Apple has officially released the first public beta of macOS 27 Golden Gate, giving everyday users their first hands-on look at the next major version of the Mac operating system. The update, announced at WWDC 2026 in June, follows three developer betas and focuses on polishing the Liquid Glass design language introduced last year, expanding Apple Intelligence capabilities, and delivering a smarter Siri experience.

Key New Features in macOS 27 Golden Gate

• Refined Liquid Glass Design: One of the biggest complaints about macOS Tahoe (26) was its inconsistent and sometimes overly aggressive transparency effects. Golden Gate introduces a new system-wide slider that lets users control the opacity of Liquid Glass UI elements — from fully transparent to heavily frosted. Windows now feature more consistent rounded corners, edge-to-edge sidebars with colorful icons return, and overall readability and contrast have been significantly improved.

• Siri AI Takes Center Stage: The headline feature is the new Siri AI, powered by an enhanced Apple Intelligence architecture. Siri now has its own dedicated app for conversational history, integrates deeply into Spotlight (with a “Search or Ask” interface), and can understand context from your Messages, Mail, files, and even what’s visible on your screen via Visual Intelligence. It also gains improved writing tools, natural language Shortcuts, and better on-device processing.

• Search and Performance Boosts: Apple completely rebuilt the indexing system, addressing longstanding Spotlight and Finder reliability issues. Search is faster and more accurate, AirDrop transfers are quicker, network file browsing feels snappier, and the system overall feels more responsive.

Additional Enhancements

• Redesigned writing tools and expanded Apple Intelligence features across Safari, Photos, and more.

• New Golden Gate-themed wallpapers and screen savers (including dynamic Sunset and Night versions).

• Improved parental controls, Screen Time, and privacy features.

• Better support for Apple silicon Macs only — Intel support has officially ended.

Compatibility

macOS Golden Gate requires an Apple silicon Mac:

• MacBook Air (2020 and later)
• MacBook Pro (2020 and later)
• iMac (2021 and later)
• Mac mini (2020 and later)
• Mac Studio (2022 and later)
• Mac Pro (2023 and later)
• New MacBook Neo (2026) models

How to Install the Public Beta

1. Back up your Mac using Time Machine.

2. Visit beta.apple.com and enroll your device in the Apple Beta Software Program.

3. Go to System Settings > General > Software Update.

4. Click the info button next to Beta Updates and select macOS 27 Golden Gate Public Beta.

5. Download and install when ready.

Apple warns that beta software may contain bugs and is not recommended for primary devices. Users should install on a secondary Mac or separate APFS volume for safety.

MacDailyNews Take: The public beta cycle will continue through the summer, with the final release expected in September or October 2026 alongside iOS 27 and other updates. Early feedback suggests Golden Gate is shaping up to be a strong refinement-focused release that addresses many Tahoe criticisms while pushing AI capabilities forward.

If you’re eager to try the new features, the public beta is now live — just proceed with caution – users should install on a secondary Mac or separate APFS volume for safety.

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iOS 27 public beta

Apple has released the first public beta of iOS 27, giving eager iPhone users an early look at the year’s most significant software update. Launched on July 13, 2026, the beta introduces a vastly improved Siri powered by Apple Intelligence, along with speed enhancements, refined visuals, and thoughtful updates to everyday features.

How to Install the iOS 27 Public Beta

Joining the beta is straightforward and free through Apple’s Beta Software Program — no developer account required.

1. Back up your iPhone first (via iCloud or a computer), as betas can bring bugs, battery drain, or app issues.

2. Visit beta.apple.com, sign in with your Apple ID, and enroll.

3. On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates.

4. Select iOS 27 Public Beta.

5. Return to the Software Update screen and tap Update Now when available.

Apple recommends testing on a secondary device. iOS 27 supports iPhone 11 and newer models (including SE 2nd generation and later). Full Apple Intelligence features, including advanced Siri AI, require iPhone 15 Pro or newer.

Siri AI Steals the Spotlight

The biggest highlight is the complete overhaul of Siri, now rebuilt as Siri AI on the next-generation Apple Intelligence foundation. It supports natural, ongoing conversations, understands on-screen content, searches your personal data across apps like Mail, Messages, Notes, and Calendar, and performs actions within apps.

• Responses appear in the Dynamic Island; pull down for full conversation view.

• A new standalone Siri app stores conversation history (synced privately via iCloud).

• Camera integration adds a Visual Intelligence mode for tasks like turning barcodes into Wallet passes or importing events from flyers.

• New voice controls let you adjust pace and expressivity.

Siri AI starts with select English variants and is unavailable in the EU at launch. Some advanced features need the latest flagship iPhones.

Apple Intelligence Expands Across Apps

Beyond Siri, Apple Intelligence brings smarter tools to several core apps:

• Safari: Auto-organizes tabs by topic, groups bookmarks and Reading List items, offers “Notify Me” for stock alerts or page changes, and can generate custom extensions from natural language prompts.

• Photos: New Clean Up for complex objects, Extend to generate content beyond frame edges, and Spatial Reframing to adjust perspective post-capture.

• Passwords: Automatically updates weak or compromised passwords with Live Activity progress.

• Shortcuts: Build automations from plain-language descriptions.

• Additional perks include Call Context in Phone, photorealistic image generation in Image Playground, and natural-language Calendar editing.

Liquid Glass Gets More Customizable

iOS 27 refines last year’s Liquid Glass design for better clarity and flexibility. Controls better diffuse backgrounds, with improved contrast for readability. The standout new feature is a customization slider in Settings > Appearance that adjusts tint and translucency system-wide, from ultra-clear to fully opaque.

Performance Upgrades for All iPhones

Apple promises noticeable speed gains even on older devices:

• Apps launch up to 30% faster.

• AirDrop transfers up to 80% faster.

• New Photos captures appear up to 70% faster.

Optimizations to the CPU scheduler benefit iPhone 11 and newer. Expect smoother unlocking, navigation, scrolling, and better network switching. Search in Spotlight, Photos, and Mail has also been rebuilt.

Redesigned Screen Time and Enhanced Child Safety

Parents get a major upgrade with a clearer dashboard, one-tap controls, category-based Time Allowances, and flexible Schedules (school days, evenings, weekends). New Ask to Browse extends permissions to websites, while Communication Safety now flags gore and violence in addition to nudity. Full features require all Family Sharing devices on iOS 27.

Other Notable Features

• Messages: Background media sending and consolidated Tapback notifications.

• Photos: Full-resolution Shared Albums, cross-platform support, keywords, star ratings, and custom slideshows.

• Save any video frame as a photo.

• Independent alarm volume control.

• Extra-large widgets that fill entire Home Screen pages.

• AirPods custom equalizer.

• Direct GymKit connections and improved FaceTime/Home features on supported hardware.

MacDailyNews Take: The public beta will evolve through the summer, with the final release expected this fall alongside new iPhones. Users can report issues via the Feedback Assistant app.

Currently, iOS 27 public beta feels like a polished, user-focused OS that meaningfully advances AI capabilities while making the iPhone faster and more enjoyable for everyone. Early testers should proceed with caution, but will in most cases likely be impressed by the refinements already in place. Again, use a secondary device for testing iOS 27 public beta.

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TIFF 2026 will open with Siân Heder’s “Being Heumann,” the Apple Original Films drama starring Ruth Madeley as pioneering disability rights activist Judy Heumann.

The film, Heder’s follow-up to her Oscar-winning “CODA,” chronicles the 1977 Section 504 sit-in protest that helped secure accessibility rights.

The 51st Toronto International Film Festival runs September 10–20, 2026.

Anthony D’Alessandro for Deadline:
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Being Heumann follows Heumann as she leads more than 100 disabled people to take over the San Francisco Federal Building, kicking off a 28 day sit-in in 1977. The protestors form a tightly bound community, refusing to leave until the government enforces section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which required all federal spaces to become accessible.

Heder and Rebekah Tussing adapted the memoir. Mark Ruffalo, Dylan O’Brien, Jon Beavers, Rob Delaney, Ray Fisher and more star in the pic. David Permut, Heder, John W. Beach, Kevin Cleary and Kevin J. Walsh produce.

“We’re thrilled to open this year’s festival with Siân Heder’s inspiring follow-up to her Oscar-winning CODA,” TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey said. “Being Heumann features an electric performance from Ruth Madeley in the story of Judy Heumann, a world-changing advocate for accessibility.”

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MacDailyNews Note: Apple Original Films has not yet released an official trailer for Being Heumann. An official teaser or trailer from Apple is expected closer to the film’s opening night at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival on September 10th.

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Suit up, call the plays, and compete for gridiron glory. EA SPORTS Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition debuts August 6 on Apple Arcade.

On August 6, the most authentic NFL video game comes to Apple devices with Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition. Designed specifically for Apple Arcade, this all-new release in the massively popular franchise lets fans live out their gridiron dreams, offering an immersive season-based experience featuring current NFL teams and realistic simulation gameplay. Arcade also welcomes NFL Retro Bowl ’27 and Retro Bowl College+, adding to the blockbuster catalog of hit sports games on the service including Football Manager 26 Touch, Mini Football Legends, NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition, NFL Retro Bowl ’26, PGA TOUR Pro Golf, Skate City: New York, and more.

“From the pitch to the court to the gridiron, Apple Arcade delivers an unmatched lineup of sports games for every kind of fan,” said Alex Rofman, Apple’s senior director of Apple Arcade, in a statement. “I’ve been a longtime Madden NFL player and adding this legendary franchise to our catalog is a dream come true. Just in time for the new season, our Arcade community can now dive into an authentic NFL experience alongside other massive sports hits like NFL Retro Bowl, NBA 2K, and Football Manager, all in one place.”

“Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition is a chance to bring the most authentic NFL experience to a new audience of football fans, letting them play and compete as the league’s most elite players, or take control as GM and shape a franchise,” said Evan Dexter, EA’s vice president of Franchise Strategy and Marketing, in a statement. “Apple Arcade is the perfect home for Madden as a premium platform that matches the complete, no-compromise experience we’ve built. Whether you’re playing on your iPhone on the go or on Apple TV with friends and family, the future of football is now in your hands.”

Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition delivers the pure football experience players seek, a complete Madden NFL game free from ads or in-app purchases. Players can dive into fan-favorite Franchise and Quick Play modes featuring dynamic player ratings built on real-world NFL performances. Powered by a weekly story engine, Franchise mode puts players in the GM seat to navigate season-shifting narratives, win over fan bases, and build a championship team. With seamless controller support across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV, Madden NFL 27 Arcade Edition brings players closer to the action exactly how they want to play, wherever they are.

Retro Bowl College+ developed by New Star Games.

Sports fans looking for even more football action can tackle Retro Bowl College+ on August 6. In this beloved spinoff of the hit Retro Bowl 8-bit game, players can make a name for themselves as a winning head coach for one of 250 college teams.

NFL Retro Bowl ’27 developed by New Star Games.

On September 3, NFL Retro Bowl ’27 kicks off a brand-new season. The hit pixel-art game is raising the stakes with a thrilling new Gauntlet Mode. Starting with limited resources, armchair GMs must survive a grueling 15-game win streak with the highest score among other players. Along the way, they must choose between safe matchups or high-risk opponents, and the rewards of real NFL stars or powerful perks. Player XP and abilities carry over after a loss, with every run fueling a relentless climb toward an epic winner-takes-all showdown against a bitter division nemesis and weekly leaderboard supremacy.

NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition developed by Visual Concepts and 2K Games.

With a constant stream of new releases and updates to current favorites, Apple Arcade ensures that players always have something to look forward to. Sports fans keep winning. The latest update to NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition is out now, adding two-time All-Star Tyrese Maxey as the newest Paragon player, along with the 2016-2024 Era to The Association mode. Also available now in PGA TOUR Pro Golf is an all-new course, Bear’s Best Atlanta, and on July 16, NFL Retro Bowl ’26 introduces a new set of Apple Games Historic Super Bowl challenges, where players can tackle some of the biggest matchups in Super Bowl history.

PGA TOUR Pro Golf developed by HypGames, Inc.

Players can also check out new free introductory experiences on the App Store for select Arcade games without a subscription, including PowerWash Simulator, Mini Motorways, Cooking Mama: Cuisine!, and Play-Doh World.

Apple Arcade is available for $6.99 per month with a one-month free trial. Customers who purchase a new iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV receive three months of Apple Arcade for free. Apple Arcade is part of Apple One’s Individual ($19.95), Family ($25.95), and Premier ($37.95) plans, with a one-month free trial. Arcade Originals are playable across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. App Store Greats are available on iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro. An Apple Arcade subscription gives a family of up to six unlimited access to all the games in its catalog. Availability for the 200+ games across devices varies based on hardware and software compatibility. Some content may not be available in all areas.

MacDailyNews Take: It’d be awesome if you could pay off the refs and players to fix NBA games just like in real life!

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