Apple shares surged roughly 3.53% on Friday, closing at $333.02 after closing the prior day at $321.66. This moved the stock closer to recent record highs and pushed its market cap at $4.891 trillion.

Main drivers

Several factors appear to have fueled the move amid a mixed-to-weaker broader market (with pressure on some chip and other tech stocks):

• Analyst support and price target increases: Multiple firms issued positive notes. Robert W. Baird raised its target to $330 from $310 (Outperform). Morgan Stanley lifted its target to $364 from $360 (Overweight), citing expectations that fiscal Q3 results (due July 30) could modestly beat consensus. HSBC upgraded to Buy with a $366 target. These reinforced confidence in Apple’s fundamentals ahead of earnings.

• Apple Intelligence progress in China: Reports of successful regulatory registration/approval for Apple’s generative AI features in China (partnering with local firms such as Alibaba’s Tongyi Qianwen as a core model and Baidu secondarily) boosted sentiment. China remains a key market, and clearer access for on-device AI features is viewed as a meaningful long-term positive for services and hardware demand.

• AI strategy and pre-earnings optimism: Investors continue to favor Apple’s relatively capital-efficient, on-device AI approach (lower data-center spending than many peers). This has helped the stock outperform in recent weeks even as other big tech names face higher capex scrutiny. Anticipation of the July 30 earnings report (consensus roughly around $1.88–$1.89 EPS and ~$109 billion revenue, with solid year-over-year growth expected) added to the buying interest.

Recent product-cycle optimism (including the broader Mac refresh pipeline reported earlier in the week) and Apple’s overall ecosystem strength have provided a supportive backdrop, but today’s jump was more directly tied to the analyst actions, China AI milestone, and earnings positioning.

MacDailyNews Take: Stock moves can reverse quickly, and no single factor is ever the sole cause. Apple has not issued company-specific news today that appears to be the primary catalyst. Earnings on July 30th, whcih we will, as usual cover with live notes, will be Apple’s next major test.

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Apple is developing an updated MacBook Neo featuring more memory, an upgraded A19 Pro chip, and additional color options as part of a wide-ranging refresh of its entire Mac lineup, according to a Bloomberg News report by Mark Gurman.

The original MacBook Neo, Apple’s budget-friendly entry-level laptop launched in March 2026, quickly became a huge hit. It debuted at $599 (as low as $499 with education pricing) before rising to a $699 starting price amid industry-wide memory cost pressures. Powered by the A18 Pro chip (the first Mac to use an A-series processor typically found in iPhones and iPads), it offered 8GB of unified memory, a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, and vibrant finishes including Silver, Blush, Citrus, and Indigo. Strong demand led to initial sell-outs, and it has been praised for bringing accessible Mac performance and Apple Intelligence features to a lower price point.

The next-generation Neo will address some of the original’s constraints by increasing unified memory — reports indicate a jump to 12GB — and switching to the A19 Pro chip (already used in recent iPhone models). Extra color options will expand on the fun, marketing-friendly palette that helped the first Neo stand out. These upgrades could help offset the recent price increase by delivering better performance and longevity, particularly for AI-related tasks.

This Neo update forms part of a much larger Mac pipeline. Gurman’s reporting indicates Apple plans new versions of nearly every Mac it sells over the next couple of years, driven by surging demand for AI-capable machines. Key elements include:

• An entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro with the new M6 chip expected this fall (2026).

• Long-awaited iMac refreshes also targeted for fall 2026.

• High-end 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros featuring OLED displays and touchscreens, powered by M5 Pro and Max chips, eyed for late 2026 or early 2027.

• A MacBook Air refresh that could include its first major redesign in over four years.

• Updated Mac mini models testing M5 Pro and M6 chips, plus Mac Studio variants with M5 Max and Ultra (or later M7 chips), though memory supply constraints tied to the broader AI boom may affect timing.

Industry observers note that ongoing global memory shortages exacerbated by AI server demand have already driven price increases across Apple’s lineup and could influence both availability and pricing of the new models. Apple has also been exploring ways to sustain sales momentum, including a new leasing program.
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MacDailyNews Take: The MacBook Neo’s success showed Apple’s willingness to expand downward in the laptop market while defending premium margins higher up. An improved Neo with more memory and a newer chip would further strengthen that position, especially if it retains a competitive price relative to crappy Windows alternatives. Exact release timing for the updated Neo remains unspecified in the reports, but it fits into Apple’s broader push to modernize the Mac range for an AI-driven era.

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Apple is poised to make one of the most impressive debuts in recent smartphone history. According to Counterpoint Research’s latest forecast, the company’s first foldable iPhone is expected to capture a remarkable 25% share of global foldable smartphone shipments in 2026 — its very first year (really, quarter) in the category — while helping propel the overall market to robust 21% year-over-year growth.

This is no ordinary product launch. In a segment long dominated by a handful of Android players, Apple is projected to debut in a clear second place, ahead of Huawei (24%) and closing the gap dramatically on market leader Samsung, whose share is forecast to decline from 40% in 2025 to 32%. Motorola and HONOR are expected to see further erosion of their positions, underscoring how Apple’s entry is poised to reshape the competitive landscape overnight.

Global Foldable Smartphone Shipment Share by OEM, 2025 vs 2026F

What makes this projection especially powerful is the nature of the demand Apple is expected to unlock. Counterpoint notes that Apple’s arrival will intensify competition specifically in the premium book-type foldable segment—the form factor that prioritizes productivity, multitasking, and expansive screen real estate over pure novelty. As AI features evolve beyond simple chat into everyday workflows such as document summarization, content editing, schedule management, and seamless cross-app information movement, a wider, more flexible canvas becomes essential. Apple’s anticipated design approach aligns perfectly with this shift, positioning the foldable iPhone as a natural extension of the company’s longstanding focus on refined user experience, seamless ecosystem integration, and premium craftsmanship.

Samsung is set to retain the overall lead for now, but the narrowing of its advantage to just seven percentage points over Apple highlights the disruptive force of Cupertino’s entry. Other brands that once held meaningful shares are projected to lose ground, illustrating how a single, highly anticipated Apple product can redefine market dynamics and accelerate category maturation.

The 21% growth forecast for the global foldable market in 2026 is itself a vote of confidence in the category’s future, and Counterpoint explicitly ties much of that expansion to Apple’s influence. By bringing its massive, loyal customer base, rigorous attention to durability and software optimization, and unmatched brand prestige into the foldable arena, Apple is expected to expand the total addressable market rather than merely redistribute existing demand. Premium book-style devices stand to benefit most, moving foldables further from experimental gadgets toward mainstream productivity tools.

For years, observers have waited for Apple’s carefully timed move into foldables. The Counterpoint numbers suggest that timing was deliberate and strategic. Rather than rushing to market, Apple appears positioned to enter with a product that not only claims a quarter of all foldable shipments in its first quarter, but also elevates the entire segment—raising expectations for design excellence, software polish, and real-world utility.

In short, 2026 is shaping up as the year the foldable smartphone market comes of age, and Apple is set to be one of its primary architects. Capturing 25% share on debut is more than a strong start; it is a clear signal that when Apple decides a category is ready, the industry—and consumers — take notice.
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MacDailyNews Take: And, in 2027, if they don’t actually exceed Counterpoint’s projection and claim the crown straight off in Q226, after a mere three months on the market, Apple’s iPhone will be No.1 in foldable smartphones. Apple’s well-heeled customer base guarantees it.

As with fingerprint and facial recognition, when Apple debuts a foldable iPhone, then foldable smartphones will have been done right. – MacDailyNews, January 17, 2019

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A U.S. judge has given preliminary approval to Apple’s $250 million settlement of a class action lawsuit over the delayed launch of advanced, personalized Siri features that the company had heavily advertised. Eligible U.S. owners of the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and all iPhone 16 models purchased between June 10, 2024 and March 29, 2025 may eventually receive $25–$95 per device, though a claims website is not yet live and no action is needed right now.

Joe Rossignol for MacRumors:
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In June 2024, Apple previewed new Siri capabilities powered by Apple Intelligence, including understanding of a user’s personal context, on-screen awareness, and deeper per-app controls. For example, Apple showed an iPhone user asking Siri about their mother’s flight and lunch reservation plans based on info from the Mail and Messages apps.

Apple advertised those Siri features in product presentations, on its website, in a TV commercial starring actor Bella Ramsey, and elsewhere.

In March 2025, Apple delayed the launch of the personalized version of Siri, leading to the company being hit with a class action lawsuit alleging false advertising…

It is unlikely that individuals who submit a claim will still need to have physical possession of an eligible iPhone model. However, there is a possibility that proof of purchase or other information will be required, such as the device’s serial number. Exact requirements will be outlined on the settlement website, which is still not live.

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MacDailyNews Note: To be eligible to submit a claim, you must reside in the U.S. and have purchased any iPhone 15 Pro or any iPhone 16 model between June 10, 2024 and March 29, 2025.

MacDailyNews Take: Apple got off easy. It ended up being effective advertising, albeit false. $250 million is just part of the marketing budget and, to Apple, it’s pocket change.

As usual, we called it correctly very early on:

When you're caught flat-footed like Tim Cook's Apple, you pop into scramble mode to try to catch up. Early on, you hit it with a big marketing flourish (WWDC24) in order to buy some more time. Then you dribble out features as they get finished & actually exist. Classic vaporware. https://t.co/I1J4y3aDNy pic.twitter.com/fLKvxGj4G3

— MacDailyNews (@MacDailyNews) July 31, 2024

The Apple Intelligence vaporware [is] false advertising, fraud, and lies. Those will be the basis for class action lawsuits from iPhone, iPad, and Mac customers soon enough. And Apple will deserve them all. – MacDailyNews, March 14, 2025

See also: Apple pulls iPhone 16 ad touting nonexistent Apple Intelligence-powered Siri features – March 10, 2025

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Apple is pressing its OLED panel suppliers for a substantial price reduction on displays destined for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max, as soaring memory chip costs force the company to seek savings elsewhere in its bill of materials.

According to a report from Korean outlet The Elec, Apple has proposed paying around $70 per OLED panel for the iPhone 18 Pro Max. Industry estimates indicate the final supply price from Samsung Display and LG Display could settle even lower — at approximately $66.50. That represents a roughly 20% drop compared with the panels used in the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

While Apple has historically negotiated lower OLED prices with each successive iPhone generation, this year’s cut is unusually steep. The reduction comes despite increased manufacturing complexity: the iPhone 18 series is expected to incorporate Samsung Display’s latest M16 OLED material set, which improves luminous efficiency, lifespan, and color performance. Panel makers must refine processes and stabilize yields for the new materials, raising production difficulty even as prices fall.

The aggressive push for lower display costs is driven by “chipflation”—sharp increases in memory semiconductor prices. Smartphone makers across the industry are attempting to offset higher memory expenses by cutting procurement costs for other components, including displays and camera modules.

Samsung Display President Lee Cheong recently highlighted the pressure, stating at K-Display 2026 that “this year is extremely difficult because of chipflation” and that “very strong pressure is coming in to lower component and display prices.” LG Display’s president noted the company is feeling the effects but described them as manageable through ongoing cost innovation.

Market research firm UBI Research projects Samsung Display will supply 46 million OLED panels for Apple’s bar-type iPhone 18 lineup this year (2 million for the standard model, 18 million for the Pro, and 26 million for the Pro Max). LG Display is expected to provide about 41 million panels (roughly 1 million for the standard model, 19 million for the Pro, and 21 million for the Pro Max).

Apple is anticipated to launch the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in September 2026 alongside its first foldable iPhone, with the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e following in spring 2027. Analysts have suggested the Pro models could see starting prices of $1,299 and $1,399 respectively — up $200 from their predecessors — largely due to elevated memory and storage costs.Whether the OLED savings will help limit further price increases for consumers remains to be seen, but the negotiations underscore the intense cost pressures currently facing the smartphone supply chain.
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MacDailyNews Take: In the high-stakes world of smartphone component supply, the message from Cupertino is clear and uncompromising: If you want to keep Apple’s gargantuan business, you will help them preserve their margins.

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Apple TV has come a long way since its uneven 2019 launch, transforming into a prestige powerhouse with 89 Emmy nominations this year — trailing only HBO Max and Netflix. From early misfires to critical darlings like “Widow’s Bay,” “Pluribus,” “Shrinking,” “Slow Horses,” and “Margo’s Got Money Troubles,” the streamer has refined its approach by betting on bold, idiosyncratic storytelling.

Rebecca Ford for Vanity Fair:
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When it debuted, Apple TV (which back then had a plus sign at the end of its name) trotted out a ton of stars who would be featured in its new shows and films, like Jennifer Aniston, Jason Momoa, and Oprah Winfrey. But many of the shows, other than The Morning Show, fell flat with audiences. Over the years, the streamer has instead been focusing on working with creatives who have boundary-pushing concepts, like Ben Stiller’s Severance or Seth Rogen’s The Studio. The shows may seem like bigger gambles on paper, but when they work, they earn acclaim.

“These are all shows that are incredibly idiosyncratic and have a really, really strong vision,” says Vanity Fair special correspondent Joy Press. “They have actors that we recognize, but they’re not the biggest stars in the universe. But they have a very strong voice behind them.”

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MacDailyNews Take: Listen below to hear about how Apple TV has pulled off this feat — and what challenges may still lie ahead for Cupertino’s oft-lauded streaming service.

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Utah residents may soon be able to store their driver’s licenses and IDs in Apple Wallet on iPhone and Apple Watch. MacRumors has uncovered references to a Utah ID in Apple’s backend systems, indicating the company is actively working on support. While the state already offers a mobile driver’s license through a standalone app, that solution currently lacks Apple Wallet integration.

Juli Clover for MacRumors:
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Utah’s mobile driver’s license FAQ page still says that it is still in the initial planning process of adding Utah IDs to Apple Wallet, but it may not be up to date.

The site also says that when Apple Wallet integration launches, iPhone users who already use the mobile app for their Utah ID will be able to download it to Apple Wallet.

Apple announced plans to add Utah driver’s licenses and IDs to the Apple Wallet app way back in 2021, but no integration has materialized. Utah was one of the first states Apple mentioned when rolling out the feature.

Other states planning to add support for driver’s licenses in Apple Wallet include Connecticut, Kentucky, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Virginia.

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MacDailyNews Note: Multiple states and Puerto Rico have already implemented support for users to store their driver’s licenses and IDs in Apple Wallet on iPhone and Apple Watch, including:

Arkansas*
Arizona
California
Colorado
Georgia
Hawaii
Illinois
Iowa
Maryland
Montana
New Mexico
North Dakota
Ohio
West Virginia

*some users in specific jurisdictions in Arkansas may still see staggered access depending on whether their state agency has finalized all local database integrations.

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Intel forecast stronger-than-expected third-quarter revenue and profit on Thursday, fueled by surging demand for its data-center CPUs amid the agentic AI boom. Shares jumped more than 5% after hours as the company also raised its 2026 capital-spending plans, while lingering hopes of a high-profile manufacturing partnership with Apple continue to intrigue investors.

Reuters:
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Intel expects third-quarter revenue between $15.8 billion and $16.8 billion, compared with analysts’ average estimate of $15.1 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG. Adjusted profit is expected to be 38 cents per share, compared with analyst estimates of 27 cents.

On a conference call with analysts, [CEO Lip-Bu] Tan said second-quarter developments prompted Intel to become “fully committed” to high-volume production of ​chips made with its forthcoming 14A manufacturing technology in 2028. Last year, Intel had warned it might be forced to abandon 14A if it could not find a major customer, which would have effectively ​put the U.S. out of the race to make the world’s fastest chips.

“I’m pleased to see the increasing momentum on customer engagements for Intel 14A, and I’m increasingly confident that the 14A will be a highly competitive process,” Tan said.

For the second quarter ended June 27, Intel said sales rose 25.4% to $16.13 billion and adjusted profit was 42 cents per share, compared with estimates of $14.42 billion and 21 cents per share. Adjusted gross margin came in at ​41.8%, versus estimates of 38.8%…

Intel’s foundry business had $5.77 billion in second-quarter sales, compared with analyst estimates of $5.55 billion.

The unit secured Elon Musk’s Tesla as a customer for its next-generation 14A process for ⁠the “Terafab” AI chip ​project. Expectations of another high-profile win rose in April after President Donald Trump announced that Apple AAPL.O had agreed to make ​processors with Intel. Neither company has confirmed the deal.

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MacDailyNews Take: Reported possibilities for Intel’s 14A node in regard to Apple Silicon (based on preliminary agreements and analyst/rumor commentary, none of which have been officially confirmed by Apple or Intel) include:

• Future iPhone A-series SoCs (e.g., successors around the A21/A22 generation) on 14A, potentially entering production toward the end of 2028.

• Certain M-series chips for Macs and iPads, though some reports lean toward earlier nodes like 18A-P for nearer-term Mac chips (around 2027) and 14A for later or higher-end parts.

The 14A node’s density and efficiency gains would suit Apple’s priorities: packing more transistors for stronger CPU/GPU/Neural Engine performance while keeping power consumption low enough for battery-powered devices. Mobile SoCs (especially iPhone chips) are often mentioned among analysts as a strong fit for new advanced nodes because of their volume and efficiency focus.

Important caveats: No official confirmation exists of which specific Apple Silicon products (if any) would use 14A, the exact mix of chips, or volume. Production is still years out, dependent on Intel successfully ramping the process and meeting Apple’s stringent yield, quality, and capacity requirements. Diversifying away from TSMC is the main strategic motive for Apple reigniting business with Intel.

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Apple’s wafer-thin iPhone Air MagSafe Battery is currently available at a significant discount — 40% off, dropping from its regular $99 price to $59 at Amazon.

This official Apple accessory is designed as a slim, seamless power extension specifically for the iPhone Air. It magnetically attaches to the back of the phone and is thin enough to slip into a pocket while still attached, making it feel more like a permanent battery upgrade than a traditional bulky power bank.

Key Features and Benefits

Apple engineered the MagSafe Battery exclusively for the iPhone Air. It adds up to 65% additional charge, helping extend battery life beyond that of other iPhones in the lineup under tested conditions.

Highlights include:

• Ultra-thin and lightweight design — Reviews and product details note its slim profile (around 6.5 mm in some comparisons), rounded edges for comfortable handling, and a soft-touch finish that integrates cleanly with the phone.

• Up to 12W wireless charging on the go when snapped on. For faster results, attach it and plug the phone into a higher-wattage adapter (20W+ or 25–30W recommended in some guidance) at the same time.

• Smart charging behavior — The system intelligently manages power between the phone and the battery pack to maximize overall runtime. It can also charge smaller accessories via its USB-C port.

• Seamless MagSafe attachment — It aligns magnetically and works with compatible MagSafe cases (remove cards or other items from wallets first).

Capacity is relatively modest (teardowns and reports point to roughly 3,149 mAh, similar to the iPhone Air’s own battery), so it prioritizes slimness and integration over maximum capacity. It typically provides a meaningful top-up (enough for a full day of moderate use in many scenarios) rather than a complete full recharge in one go.

Who It’s Best For

This is ideal for iPhone Air owners who want extra battery without adding noticeable bulk or changing the phone’s sleek feel. It can serve as a near-permanent companion for all-day use. While primarily optimized for the iPhone Air, some users have noted broader MagSafe compatibility benefits with other recent iPhones, though Apple positions it as exclusive to the Air.

MacDailyNews Take: The $59 price (40% off the $99 MSRP) represents a solid discount on an official Apple accessory. Deals like this can sell out or change quickly — Amazon stock and pricing fluctuate — so check the current listing directly. Apple’s own store continues to list it at the full $99.

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Benicio Del Toro is heading to Apple TV for his first-ever starring role in a comedy series.

The Oscar winner will lead “Protective Custody,” a new comedy from Mike Judge, Ben Stiller (who also stars and executive produces), Steve Hely, and Dave King.

It’s a reunion for Del Toro and Stiller after their acclaimed limited series “Escape at Dannemora.” The series is currently in development at Apple Studios.

Tony Maglio for The Hollywood Reporter:
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“Protective Custody” will follow “a disgraced financier accused of massive fraud who is thrown into protective custody, where he must navigate prison politics, salvage his reputation and confront the consequences of his actions while awaiting trial,” according to the synopsis.

Apple will not say if Del Toro or Stiller (or someone else!) is that disgraced financier.

Judge will direct the series, which hails from Apple Studios, Stiller’s Red Hour, Propagate Content, and 3 Arts Entertainment.

Stiller is one of Apple TV’s most prolific producers. He executive produces and often directs episodes of “Severance,” and Stiller’s documentary about his parents, “Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost,” is also on the platform. Stiller produces and stars in the upcoming feature-length comedy movie “The Dink” for Apple TV, and is in production for its limited series “The Off Weeks,” which he stars in and executive produces opposite Jessica Chastain.

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MacDailyNews Take: Shut up. Just shut up. You had us at Mike Judge. You had us at Mike Judge.

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Apple’s Liquid Glass interface has always been a bold, polarizing experiment in translucency. With the iOS 27 public beta, the company is now letting users push it even further — into “More Clear” territory. One writer cranked the new slider all the way to maximum transparency and spent a full week living with the most warped, glassy, and delightfully distorted iPhone experience yet.

From notifications that ripple and refract app icons like light through actual glass, to menu bars that turn text into momentary abstract art, the clearest Liquid Glass setting revives the playful dimensionality Apple first chased more than a decade ago. It’s not the most practical choice for everyone, but for those willing to embrace the whimsy, it turns the phone into something closer to living, breathing art.

Wired‘s Reece Rogers dove in headfirst. Here’s what it felt like to go full transparent.

Reece Rogers for Wired:
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Fear not — if you don’t feel the same way as I do about transparency — you can drag that same slider to the right and boost the overall opacity of Liquid Glass. There’s still the option to Reduce Transparency and Increase Contrast as well.

I immediately cranked my settings to maximum clarity after I downloaded the public beta and left the setting on for a week to get the full experience. I understand why some prefer the heavily tinted version or need to switch it for accessibility reasons, yet I reveled in the warped colors and characters as I experienced Liquid Glass in its clearest glory.

The “more clear” option also added an increased depth to my device — reminiscent of an Apple update from more than a decade ago, in iOS 7, that you likely haven’t thought about in a minute: 3D apps. Apple added a parallax wallpaper effect during the iPhone 5’s heyday that used the smartphone’s gyroscope to make it appear as if app icons on your home screen floated slightly above the background, visibly shifting to the phone’s tilt.

Both Liquid Glass and 3D app icons gave the iPhone a more tactile sense of dimensionality…

Halfway through my week of testing, this option started to look so normal to me that I worried I had accidentally reset my phone to the default and checked my settings to ensure “more clear” was still enabled. It was. Which was a relief, and a sign I’d adjusted to this clearer version of Liquid Glass even faster than anticipated…

[T]his clear-minded update was delightful to try, and I’m keeping up with my transparent lifestyle even after the weeklong experiment ended.

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MacDailyNews Take: You might even say that Apple’s Liquid Glass cranked up to maximum transparency makes the buttons on the screen look so good you’ll want to lick them.

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Today – and, admittedly, always – we refer fondly to John C. Dvorak as a “bloated gasbag” on the occasion of his passing at the age of 80.

John wrote and said things, seemingly at random, basically in order to get a rise out of people, not so much because he deeply believed them. Long before the rise of social media, Dvorak was an exemplary engagement farmer, a master of outrage bait, a troll king.

He certainly prompted us to spill reams of digital ink all over our pages for many years and we’ll miss him.

Here are just a few examples:

• PC Magazine unceremoniously jettisons bloated gasbag John Dvorak – September 21, 2018
• Dvorak: Is iPhone X Apple’s Vista? – November 1, 2017
• Dvorak: Apple should spin off the Mac into a separate company – June 22, 2016
• Dvorak on Apple Watch: ‘Yawn – I’m not going to buy one’ – September 10, 2014
• Dvorak: A standing O for Apple’s new Mac Pro – June 11, 2013
• Dvorak: ‘Microsoft’s Surface tablet isn’t the Apple iPad, so it shouldn’t be priced like one’ – October 18, 2012
• Dvorak: I really cannot see much of a need for Apple iPad – October 22, 2010
• Even a blind squirrel: John Dvorak finally gets something right about Apple – January 29, 2008
• Dvorak: Apple’s MacBook Air unlikely to be much of a success – January 25, 2008
• Dvorak finally uses a Mac: recommends Mac to friends and neighbors – July 26, 2007
• Dvorak on Apple iPhone: ‘I think Apple can do wrong and I think this is it’ – January 13, 2007
• Dvorak trolls: ‘Apple should pull the plug on the iPhone’ – March 28, 2007
• Analyst called iPhone an ‘enigma’ but that doesn’t stop him from predicting its failure – March 28, 2007
• Apple sells 450,000 of Dvorak’s ‘nutty’ Nike+iPod Sport Kits in under three months – September 13, 2006
• Video: Dvorak admits to baiting Apple Mac users for hits – June 10, 2006
• Dvorak thinks iPod+Nike Sport Kit is ‘nutty’ – May 24, 2006
• Dvorak: ‘Apple Computer should change its name for good’ to avoid future Apple Corps litigation – March 29, 2006
• Dvorak: Will Apple ditch Mac OS X for Microsoft’s Windows? – February 16, 2006

Here are some of the bloated gasbag’s greatest emissions:

• The Macintosh uses an experimental pointing device called a “mouse.” There is no evidence that people want to use these things. — John C. Dvorak, 1984

• Apple should pull the plug on the iPhone… What Apple risks here is its reputation as a hot company that can do no wrong. If it’s smart it will call the iPhone a ‘reference design’ and pass it to some suckers to build with someone else’s marketing budget. Then it can wash its hands of any marketplace failures… Otherwise I’d advise people to cover their eyes. You are not going to like what you’ll see. — John C. Dvorak, 2007

• iPhone which doesn’t look, I mean to me, I’m looking at this thing and I think it’s kind of trending against, you know, what’s really going, what people are really liking on, in these phones nowadays, which are those little keypads. I mean, the Blackjack from Samsung, the Blackberry, obviously, you know kind of pushes this thing, the Palm, all these… And I guess some of these stocks went down on the Apple announcement, thinking that Apple could do no wrong, but I think Apple can do wrong and I think this is it. — John C. Dvorak, 2007

• The Apple iPad is not going to be the company’s next runaway best seller. — John C. Dvorak, 2010

• Within the decade, Microsoft should have a minimum of 300 stores. They should do as well as the Apple Stores. — John C. Dvorak, 2012

MacDailyNews Take: John, you bloated gasbag, you will be missed! R.I.P.

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HSBC has become the latest Wall Street firm to show increased confidence in Apple upgrading the stock from Hold to Buy and raising its price target to $366 from $260.

Analyst Nicolas Cote-Colisson cited Apple’s “operational turning point,” improving iPhone demand, and a promising AI-driven product cycle as key factors behind the upgrade. The new target implies roughly 10-12% upside from recent trading levels around $325–$333.

“Apple is at an inflection point with a strong cycle ahead,” the note indicated, pointing to better-than-expected hardware momentum, services resilience, and the upcoming rollout of enhanced Apple Intelligence features. HSBC also outlined a blue-sky scenario that could push the target even higher if AI execution exceeds expectations.

This move follows several other recent analyst actions in July 2026:

• Citi raised its price target to $365 from $315 (Buy rating) on July 13, emphasizing market share gains and AI upside.

• KeyBanc downgraded the stock to Underweight with a $250 target on July 14, a more cautious outlier view.

• Earlier in the month, JPMorgan lifted its target to $345.

The adjustments come as investors gear up for Apple’s fiscal third-quarter earnings on July 30, 2026. Analysts will be watching iPhone sales trends, services growth, gross margins, and forward guidance into the fall launch season.

The consensus on AAPL is a Moderate Buy, with an average price target around $325–$330 across 30+ analysts. Bullish firms continue to highlight Apple’s ecosystem strength and AI potential as drivers for a multi-year growth story.

Apple shares have shown resilience in 2026, up significantly year-to-date, though they remain sensitive to macroeconomic factors and competition in premium smartphones.

MacDailyNews Take: KeyBanc is regularly wrong on Apple, so their recent downgrade is actually yet another positive sign for AAPL.

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Apple TV has confirmed that “The Morning Show” will end after a fifth season in 2027. The series, which premiered in 2019 as one of the flagship original shows for the streaming service, stars and is executive produced by Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon.

The series is produced by Media Res and executive produced by Echo Films and Hello Sunshine. Charlotte Stoudt serves as showrunner and executive producer, while Mimi Leder directs and executive produces. Michael Ellenberg executive produces for Media Res, with additional executive producers including Lauren Neustadter for Hello Sunshine and Kristin Hahn for Echo Films.

Statements from Key Participants

Jennifer Aniston, star and executive producer, said: “From the beginning, Apple has supported our vision for ‘The Morning Show.’ It’s been a privilege to work with this cast, writers, producers and crew. We’re excited to share this final season and to conclude the series intentionally.”

Reese Witherspoon, star and executive producer, said: “The past nine years producing and acting in ‘The Morning Show’ have been the honor of a lifetime. This was a show about why the newsroom matters, freedom of the press, and the role of journalists. Thank you to Apple, our writers, crew and cast.”

Zack Van Amburg, Apple’s head of worldwide video, said: “Seeing this series through from start to finish has been the joy of a lifetime. ‘The Morning Show’ helped launch Apple TV and delivered five seasons of television. We’re grateful to the entire team and look forward to the final chapter.”

Jamie Erlicht, Apple’s head of worldwide video, added: “Working with Jennifer, Reese, Michael, Mimi and Charlotte has been one of the great privileges of building Apple TV. We’re proud of the series and its impact.”

Michael Ellenberg, CEO and founder of Media Res, described the series as a significant project for the team: “We’ve been fortunate to connect with a global audience. We look forward to fans seeing the fifth and final season.”

Showrunner Charlotte Stoudt said: “For five seasons, these journalists have chased their dreams. Now we’ll see where their endeavors lead them. It’s been a privilege to write for this cast.”

Mimi Leder, executive producer and director, said: “It has been the honor and privilege of my career to bring this series from conception to conclusion. It’s been a meaningful journey.”

Cast and Production

The ensemble cast is led by Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, Billy Crudup, Mark Duplass, Nestor Carbonell, Karen Pittman, Nicole Beharie, and Jon Hamm. Season five will include new additions Jeff Daniels, Reneé Rapp, Jesse Williams, Sean Hayes, Lizzy Caplan and others.

“The Morning Show” is showrun and executive produced by Charlotte Stoudt and directed and executive produced by Mimi Leder. It is produced by Media Res, with executive producers including Michael Ellenberg, Stoudt, Leder, Witherspoon and Neustadter for Hello Sunshine, and Aniston and Hahn for Echo Films. Zander Lehmann and Micah Schraft also executive produce.

Season four, currently streaming, is set in spring 2024 following the UBA-NBN merger and explores themes of responsibility, truth, and media in a polarized environment.

Awards and Recognition

The series has received multiple award nominations and wins. Season three earned 16 Emmy nominations, with Billy Crudup winning his second Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. The show has also received Critics Choice Awards, SAG Awards, and recognition from the American Film Institute.

MacDailyNews Take: For us, “The Morning Show” ended sometime early in season 3. Steve Carell’s Mitch Kessler was the glue that held our eyeballs. Without him, buh-bye.

However, despite losing us, seasons 3 and 4 both performed well enough for renewals. The show has remained culturally visible and continues to generate headlines. There have been no leaks or reports about catastrophic drops in viewership that typically precede abrupt cancellations. So, this reads as a mutual, planned ending rather than a forced cancellation due to bad numbers. Apple and the producers likely decided together that five seasons provided the right arc for the series, especially with expensive talent and a desire to end relatively strongly.

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Apple and Ford on Thursday announced that Apple Maps will be integrated directly into Ford’s upcoming Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) Platform through Apple’s new MapKit for Automotive SDK. Coming to Ford’s UEV Platform in 2027, this integration will deliver a beautiful and easy-to-use navigation experience powered by Apple Maps directly to the vehicle’s displays. Road-level Maps information will also enable Ford’s Latitude AI team to build a seamless hands-free driving experience.

Leveraging Apple’s new MapKit for Automotive SDK, Ford’s Universal Electric Vehicle Platform will offer drivers turn-by-turn directions using natural language, real-time traffic and incident information, intuitive search featuring detailed place cards, and routing options to help users easily find the best route to their destination. Additionally, Ford UEV drivers will benefit from an intelligent EV routing functionality, including battery preconditioning. Ford will also use road-level information from Apple Maps as part of the development of its next-generation BlueCruise hands-free highway driving capability to deliver a more seamless on-ramp-to-off-ramp experience.

“Apple Maps delivers the best map experience in the world, and we’re excited to bring the power of Maps’ navigation technology to Ford’s innovative Universal Electric Vehicle Platform,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services and Health, in a statement. “With our new MapKit for Automotive SDK, we’re bringing Maps further into drivers’ daily lives, giving them an incredibly accurate and easy-to-use navigation system that is seamlessly integrated into Ford vehicles.”

“Our new midsize electric vehicle will be priced around $30,000 and redefines what advanced technology can be — simple, useful, and truly attainable for more customers,” said Jim Farley, Ford Motor Company’s CEO, in a statement. “We’re proud to embed Apple Maps’ navigation and mapping technology directly into our Universal Electric Vehicle Platform, giving customers the ultimate navigation experience alongside our Ford app, a full suite of software, and next-generation BlueCruise, all enabled by a new zonal architecture. Apple Maps has delivered a world-class product, and we’re honored to be among the first to embed it directly into a vehicle, helping define intuitive, capable driving.”

This integration is made possible by Apple’s new MapKit for Automotive SDK, which allows automakers to embed and customize Apple Maps. The SDK also enables automakers to deliver a cohesive navigation experience for drivers that is consistent with the look and feel of their vehicles, and provides road-level information to help automakers build hands-free driving experiences. The SDK follows the same privacy principles that the Apple Maps app provides today. Apple does not collect users’ location details and activity on the vehicle’s map in a way that can be tied back to the individual user.

MacDailyNews Note: In addition to the integration of Apple Maps into Ford’s UEV Platform, CarPlay will continue to be available on Ford vehicles, providing drivers with a safe and smart way to use their iPhone in the car.

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Apple TV on Thursday announced a new eight-episode dating documentary series, “The Last Person on Earth,” with New York Times bestselling author and renowned couples therapist Esther Perel. In the series, couples who appear to be opposites are expertly paired by Perel and a team of matchmakers and therapists, before embarking on an adventure in one of the world’s most romantic and remote destinations. With more single people than ever before and increasing levels of polarization and social isolation, this innovative experiment asks the question: could the last person on Earth you think you’d ever want to date end up being the one person you can’t live without? And will an unexpected pairing in paradise open their horizons and be the beginning of a life-changing relationship?

“Over the course of my career as a couples therapist, one truth has become undeniable: love may crave closeness, but desire is fueled by otherness,” said Perel in a statement. “‘The Last Person on Earth’ is a bold exploration of relationships that challenges everything we assume about compatibility; inviting people to drop the checklist and embrace dating as an adventure into the unknown. When we choose to step outside the narrow boundaries of what feels familiar or safe, passionate love stories can flourish.”
From Boldprint Studios, “The Last Person on Earth” is executive produced by Dan Gray, Lou Hutchinson and Phil Harris, with series director Josh Jacobs. Olly Lambert also serves as director on the series.

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 3,800 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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With Apple shares trading near all-time highs around $326, fresh speculation about a potential stock split has resurfaced. While the company has not announced any plans, the upcoming leadership transition adds a new dimension to the discussion.

Apple announced in April 2026 that Tim Cook will step down as CEO on August 31 and transition to Executive Chairman, with John Ternus (currently Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering) taking over as CEO effective September 1, 2026. This marks the most significant leadership change at Apple in over 15 years.

Could the CEO Transition Influence a Split?

Analysts and investors are debating whether the smooth handover could accelerate or delay a split:

• Potential catalyst: A new CEO often seeks early wins to build momentum. A stock split would be a low-risk, high-visibility move that signals confidence and appeals to retail investors — especially as Ternus begins his tenure.

• Likely timing: Most observers expect any decision to wait until after the transition settles (late 2026 or 2027), once Ternus has established his priorities around AI, hardware innovation, and Mac refreshes.

• Continuity advantage: With Cook remaining as Executive Chairman, the board is expected to maintain strong oversight, reducing any perceived risk around major shareholder-friendly actions.

Apple has not split its stock since the 4-for-1 in August 2020. With fractional-share trading now widespread, the urgency is lower than in the past, but a split could still broaden accessibility and create psychological tailwinds.

Apple’s stock has performed strongly in 2026, rebounding from a weaker 2025 and recently approaching record levels. Solid services growth, ongoing buybacks, and AI/hardware momentum (including upcoming Mac lineup overhauls) have supported the rally — all without a split.

Historically, Apple splits (1987, 2000, 2005, 2014, 2020) have often coincided with periods of optimism and growth. A future split under Ternus could similarly project confidence in the company’s long-term trajectory.

MacDailyNews Take: The Cook-to-Ternus transition is unlikely to hinder a stock split and could even encourage one as an early signal of confidence under the new leadership. That said, Apple tends to be deliberate, so any move would likely prioritize substance over optics.

While a split (even a modest 2-for-1 or 3-for-1) could project optimism and attract more retail interest, Apple’s fundamentals (robust cash reserves, ongoing innovation, and execution on AI/hardware roadmaps) appear to be driving the stock’s current momentum without one. Splits are cosmetic in terms of intrinsic value but have historically aligned with growth phases. Investors should watch for any board signals or SEC filings, but the lack of a split hasn’t held back the rebound in 2026.

Apple’s split history:

• June 16, 1987: 2-for-1
• June 21, 2000: 2-for-1
• February 28, 2005: 2-for-1
• June 9, 2014: 7-for-1
• August 31, 2020: 4-for-1

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Apple is preparing a comprehensive refresh of its entire Mac ecosystem, with new models of the MacBook Air, iMac, MacBook Pro, a new “Neo” variant, Mac mini, and Mac Studio slated for release across this fall and into next year.

According to Bloomberg News‘ Mark Gurman, the technology giant aims to meet surging demand for powerful AI-capable machines by updating every Mac it currently sells. The overhaul includes long-awaited desktop refreshes and several laptop redesigns, positioning Apple to better compete in an increasingly AI-driven computing landscape.

The rollout begins later this year with an entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the M6 chip and refreshed iMac models. These updates address pent-up demand for modern desktops and more affordable professional laptops.

Further ahead, Apple plans higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring OLED displays and touchscreen capabilities, expected in late 2026 or early 2027 with M5 Pro and Max chips. New MacBook Air variants, including potential OLED versions, and a more powerful “MacBook Neo” with expanded RAM are also in the works.

Desktop users can look forward to updates for the Mac mini and Mac Studio, though some launches may face minor delays due to memory shortages driven by strong AI component demand.

This broad hardware push comes as Apple seeks to leverage its Apple Intelligence features and next-generation chips to drive sales amid a competitive market. The company is also introducing an “Apple Upgrade” leasing program in partnership with Klarna to make switching devices easier for customers.

MacDailyNews Take: With John Ternus stepping into the CEO role (effective September 1, 2026), Apple appears to be rediscovering a sharper product-first mindset. Ternus, long seen as a hardware and design deep-diver with decades of hands-on experience across iPad, Mac, and Apple Silicon development, brings a different emphasis than the iterative, operations-focus that defined the Cook slog.

The benefits to Apple Inc. and Apple device users of again having a product-focused CEO at Apple’s helm are already occurring!

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In a significant legal setback, Apple has failed in its bid to overturn a $634 million jury verdict awarded to medical technology firm Masimo in a high-stakes patent infringement case centered on blood oxygen monitoring technology in Apple Watches.

A federal judge in California rejected Apple’s request to set aside the massive award, upholding the jury’s decision that the tech giant infringed on Masimo’s patents related to pulse oximetry features. The technology in question powers the blood oxygen (SpO2) sensing capabilities found in several generations of Apple Watch models.

Key Details of the Ruling

The court also determined that Apple misappropriated two out of 14 Masimo trade secrets. However, the judge stopped short of issuing a permanent injunction against Apple and barred Masimo from pursuing additional monetary damages on the trade secret claims.

Masimo, which has since become part of Danaher Corporation, had originally sought up to $3.1 billion in damages tied to the trade secret allegations. The company has already filed an appeal challenging the limitations on that portion of the case. Apple, for its part, has maintained that its engineers independently developed the health-monitoring features in question.

Background on the Dispute

The lawsuit dates back several years and highlights ongoing tensions between consumer electronics giants and specialized medical device companies. Masimo accused Apple of stealing proprietary technology originally developed for clinical-grade pulse oximeters and incorporating it into the Apple Watch, one of Apple’s most important wearable products.

The case gained extra attention after Apple faced regulatory scrutiny and sales restrictions on certain Apple Watch models in the U.S. due to a separate patent dispute (with another party). The Masimo verdict adds further pressure on Apple’s wearable division, which has become a key growth driver for the company.

Implications for Apple

This decision keeps significant legal and financial pressure on Apple as it continues to defend the core health features of its smartwatches. Investors will be closely watching:

• The ongoing appeal process
• Potential impacts on Apple Watch sales or required licensing deals
• Any broader effects on future product features

While $634 million represents a notable hit, it is manageable for Apple given its enormous cash reserves and overall market capitalization. However, repeated legal challenges in the wearables space could increase costs and slow innovation timelines.

Apple shares were little changed in after-hours trading following the news, reflecting the market’s view that the verdict, while unfavorable, was largely anticipated and already priced in to some extent.

MacDailyNews Take: Apple will appeal to a higher court as the battle over blood oxygen monitoring rights remains unresolved.

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“Ted Lasso” arrived on Apple TV in 2020 as a refreshing antidote to cynicism: a kind-hearted American football coach (Jason Sudeikis) takes over a struggling English Premier League football (soccer) team, winning over skeptics with optimism, biscuits, and “believe” signs. Seasons 1 and 2 delivered sharp comedy, genuine emotional depth, and broad appeal, earning Emmys and a devoted fanbase. Then came Season 3 in 2023. Many viewers felt the show shifted from feel-good underdog story to something heavier on messaging and virtue-signaling.

What Went Wrong in Season 3?

Critics gave Season 3 a solid 81% on Rotten Tomatoes, but audience scores dipped, with notable backlash. Common complaints included scattered storytelling with longer episodes that spread focus across too many characters and subplots, diluting the core team dynamic. The gentle humor gave way to heavier lectures on topics like sexuality, gender dynamics, and social issues. Storylines involving multiple LGBTQ+ characters and identity themes often felt shoehorned in, prioritizing virtue-signaling over organic character growth. Some scenes started feeling like after-school specials rather than natural extensions of the show’s wholesome spirit.

Jason Sudeikis has pushed back against the criticism, suggesting detractors “don’t have imaginations” or lack curiosity. That’s a fair creative defense (series do evolve over time), but it didn’t win over fans who felt the series abandoned its original charm for contemporary posturing.

Season 4 Setup: Promising or Risky?

Season 4 premieres August 5, 2026, on Apple TV. Ted returns to Richmond to coach a second-division women’s football team. Promotional materials suggest more of the signature warmth, with returning favorites like Rebecca (Hannah Waddingham), Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein), Keeley (Juno Temple), and Coach Beard, plus new cast members. The logline emphasizes “leaping before they look” and taking chances.

Potential red flags for “woke disaster” concerns:

• The premise itself — Ted coaching women — invites explorations of gender, empowerment, and male-female dynamics. Given Season 3’s direction, there’s a real risk of heavy-handed messaging around feminism and identity politics in sports.

• Hollywood’s track record shows many comedies have struggled when prioritizing social commentary over laughs.

• Creative team continuity from Season 3 raises questions about whether the virtue-signaling elements will persist or intensify.

Reasons for optimism:

• The women’s team angle could deliver fresh comedy with non-traditional football coaching, team rivalries, and Ted’s positivity clashing with new personalities, without needing to shoehorn in ideological crutches.

• The core strength of the show has always been relationships and personal growth. If the focus stays on believable character arcs (unlike Keely’s in Season 3, for example), it can recapture Season 1 magic.

• The three-year gap since Season 3 might reset expectations and allow a return to form.

The Bigger Picture

“Ted Lasso” succeeded initially because it was not another lecture. It celebrated kindness, resilience, and community without alienating viewers. Many topics aren’t inherently bad where it fits naturally, but when it feels like agenda first and entertainment second, the formula breaks. Season 3 proved that strong performances couldn’t fully mask the sense that the show was trying way too hard to be “important.”

MacDailyNews Take: Season 4 doesn’t have to repeat Season 3’s mistakes. A women’s team offers rich comedic territory without mandating sermons. If the writers trust the audience and prioritize funny, heartfelt stories over checking boxes, it could be a strong return. If they treat it as another vehicle for cultural commentary, the “woke disaster” label may stick.

Ultimately, we’ll know soon enough. Ted’s mantra, “Believe,” applies here, too. But belief works best when earned through great TV, not imposed. August 5th will tell. Fingers crossed the biscuits are fresh and the lectures are light.

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