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The iOS 27 beta has overall been a very positive experience for many beta testers, but if you have installed iOS 26 beta onto your iPhone or iPad and decided that it’s no longer for you, perhaps due to some incompatibility, critical bug, or other issue, then you can downgrade your iPhone from iOS 27 ... Read More
The post How to Downgrade from iOS 27 Beta to iOS 26 appeared first on OS X Daily.
Apple is scheduled to report fiscal third-quarter 2026 results (the June quarter) after the market close on Thursday, July 30th, followed by its usual conference call. The release carries extra weight: it is expected to be Tim Cook’s final earnings call as CEO before hardware engineering chief John Ternus assumes the role on September 1, with Cook moving to executive chairman.
Consensus Estimates
Wall Street is looking for solid double-digit growth. Consensus forecasts (drawn from roughly 27–31 analysts) call for:
• Revenue of approximately $108.9 billion, up about 16% from $94.0 billion a year earlier.
• Diluted EPS of $1.89, up roughly 20% from $1.57 in the year-ago quarter.
These figures sit comfortably inside management’s prior guidance of 14–17% year-over-year revenue growth and a gross margin range of 47.5–48.5% (down from 49.3% in the March quarter as higher memory costs begin to weigh). Operating expenses are expected in the $18.8–$19.1 billion range.
Zacks consensus is nearly identical at $108.8 billion in sales and $1.88 EPS. Apple has beaten estimates in recent quarters, with an average earnings surprise of more than 7% over the past four reports.
Segment Expectations
• iPhone remains the primary driver. Analysts project iPhone revenue near $53 billion (some estimates range $53–$55 billion), representing roughly 19–23% growth from $44.6 billion last year, fueled by the iPhone 17 cycle, healthy upgrade activity, share gains, and a richer mix of higher-priced Pro models.
• Services, Apple’s high-margin growth engine, is expected around $31.4 billion, up from $27.4 billion a year earlier (mid-teens percentage growth). Investors will watch for any commentary on Apple Intelligence adoption and subscription momentum.
• Mac, iPad, and Wearables are expected to contribute more modestly, with some notes of supply constraints on certain Mac models.
Analyst Views
Several firms are slightly ahead of consensus. Goldman Sachs expects revenue of $110.1 billion (17% growth) and EPS of $1.93, citing outperformance in iPhone and Mac plus better margins; the firm raised its price target to $370. Bank of America models about $109 billion in revenue and $1.89 EPS. UBS is more cautious at $107.8 billion revenue and $1.84 EPS.
Key focus areas on the call are expected to include:
• Sustainability of iPhone demand into the September quarter and the upcoming product cycle.
• Gross-margin trajectory amid elevated DRAM and NAND costs.
• Progress on AI features (including the recent clearance for Apple Intelligence in Greater China) and any early metrics on usage or monetization.
• Forward guidance, especially for the September quarter, and any color on the leadership transition.
• Capital return, inventory levels, and China trends.
Apple stock has rallied strongly in 2026 (up roughly 24% year-to-date in some tallies), leaving the shares trading at a premium valuation — near 35–38 times forward earnings by some measures. That leaves limited room for disappointment. A clean beat paired with confident guidance on continued double-digit growth and stable margins would likely be well received; any soft outlook or sharper-than-expected margin pressure could prompt a more cautious reaction.
MacDailyNews Take: In a nutshell, analysts expect another strong quarter driven by iPhone and Services, but the real test will be whether Apple can sustain the momentum while navigating higher component costs as new CEO John Ternus, blessedly a product guy per se, prepares to take the reins. Apple Upgrade should help in this respect.
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The post What Wall Street expects from Apple’s Q3 earnings on Thursday appeared first on MacDailyNews.
Apple (Hacker News):
Apple today announced Apple Upgrade, a new product leasing program provided by Klarna for iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, and iPad available on the Apple Store online, in the Apple Store app, and at Apple Store locations in the United States.
[…]
Apple Upgrade offers 12- and 24-month leasing options for iPhone and Apple Watch, and 24- and 36-month leasing options for Mac and iPad. Leasing prices start as low as $17.99 per month for iPhone, $11.99 for Apple Watch, $24.99 for Mac, and $11.99 for iPad.
The $17.99/month gets you a base model iPhone 17e for 24 months. This is a total of $431.76 vs. $599 for buying a new one today, but then you have to make a decision:
At the end of the lease term, customers can upgrade their device to the latest generation, purchase it with a one-time payment, or simply return it and exit the program.
I used to get a new phone every other year, but I kept my iPhone 12 mini for three years and will likely keep my 15 Pro for four years. In addition to making it easier to buy phones without the up-front payment, Apple is probably hoping this will encourage more customers to get back on the two-year cycle. Given the choice between continuing a small monthly payment and getting a new phone or making a larger payment to keep their old phone, many may opt to upgrade.
The payoff amount is the difference between what was paid during the leasing period and the retail price of the device, minus any remaining trade-in credits. Klarna is not charging a fee for the leasing program, so an iPhone that’s $1,099 can be leased and then purchased for $1,099 with no extra cost beyond taxes.
I guess this means that, for a bit of hassle, you can essentially buy the device for the list price at 0% interest.
Lease participants can opt to end a lease early and return a device, but Apple says there may be “substantial fees” for terminating a lease before the end of the term.
[…]
Customers must upgrade, end the lease, or purchase the device at the end of the lease term. If that doesn’t happen, the lease converts to a month-to-month lease for up to six months.
[…]
Damage to an iPhone, losing an iPhone, or having an iPhone stolen could incur fees.
The rollout of the program comes as Apple has been struggling with supply chain issues related to “RAMageddon,” which refers to the industry-wide shortage of memory chips that is driving up the price of hardware. As a result, Apple recently announced price hikes for its Mac and iPad lineups, sparing the iPhone for now. The new Upgrade program seems to be Apple’s answer to making those higher prices more manageable for consumers.
Customers can manage their lease directly in the Klarna app, where they can view their billing schedule and track remaining payments.
With the launch of the new Upgrade program, Apple is discontinuing its existing in-house financing and installment programs in the U.S., which include the iPhone Upgrade Program and iPhone Payments.
For iPhones, you have to have a carrier and can’t use a prepaid plan.
[…]
For iPads, the starting prices range from $12.99/month to $24.99/month, Macs range from starting prices of $24.99/month to $48.99/month, and the Apple Watch ranges from starting prices of $11.99/month to $47.03/month. But again, these are just starting prices. You can configure a fully loaded 16-inch MacBook Pro that is just under $230/month, and it won’t include AppleCare.
As a point of comparison, under the current program that is being discontinued, I pay $69.50/month for an iPhone 17 Pro Max, but I have a 512GB model, so my lease price for the same phone would be $40.83/month, significantly lower, but keep in mind that doesn’t include AppleCare+, which would add $13.99/month or $139/year for that iPhone. On a monthly basis, that puts a new iPhone 17 Pro Max with 512GB of storage and AppleCare+ at just under $55/month. Still a superior deal, but not nearly as good as the landing page might initially lead you to believe.
[…]
If you lease accessories for your device, those don’t have to be returned. Why? Presumably because they have no value to Apple or Klarna.
9to5Mac can now confirm that code found in the iOS 27 beta appears to reveal a broader system for managing a financed iPhone, including the ability to restrict apps and services when payments are missed.
The code describes a system called App Managed Features, which allows an authorized financing or provider app to enroll an iPhone and perform ongoing status checks.
If the contract is no longer in good standing, Apple’s system services can place the iPhone in “Restricted Mode,” which blocks access to most apps until the payment or contract issue is resolved, while keeping a small set of apps available.
I bet there are some governments that would love to commandeer that for their own purposes.
Finally, the new framework also introduces a new type of activation lock called “Partner Finance Lock,” which is meant to prevent users from erasing, reselling, or stripping a restricted device for parts.
Previously:
Update (2026-07-29): Emma Roth:
Apple says it won’t limit the capabilities of devices leased through its new Upgrade program if you miss a payment. In an emailed statement to The Verge, Apple spokesperson Brian Bumbery says, “There will be no restricted mode and/or there will be no limitations put on device functionality due to missed payments or default with the Apple Upgrade program.”
So then what is the code that 9to5Mac found for?
One possibility is that it was developed for financing programs offered by carriers, retailers, or other partners outside Apple Upgrade, potentially including markets where device restrictions are already used to enforce installment agreements.
See also: Mac Power Users, TidBITS, MacRumors, Slashdot.
Update (2026-07-30): Ryan Christoffel:
Here’s what every eligible product costs with Apple Upgrade.
Here’s a breakdown of how much you’d pay for the devices included in the Apple Upgrade program, as well as how much more you’d pay to purchase the devices outright at the end of your lease[…]
[…]
Klarna doesn’t say what will happen if you don’t pay the outstanding balance.
[…]
During the lease, Klarna owns your device. You’re responsible for any damage, and will get charged a fee if you don’t return the device in “good condition.” That’s why Apple is encouraging customers to sign up for an AppleCare subscription that could drive up the cost of your lease even more.
[…]
Apple also notes that you’ll have to pay an early termination fee if you want to return the device before your lease ends or if you want to upgrade early.
Eyes:
If you lose the leased phone you have to pay Klarna for the phone plus early lease cancellation fees.
The Apple Card Monthly Installments aren’t going away, so I’ll keep using that.
[…]
When you finance using the Apple Card Monthly Installments, you pay a fixed amount to own your device. There are no savings here — aside from the 3% cashback — the monthly payment is the purchase price divided by either 12 or 24 months.
When you lease an iPhone through Apple Upgrade, you need a cellular account on one of the big three U.S. carriers: AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon. That kind of stinks, and I’m not quite sure I understand why.
Eyes:
The iPhone upgrade program always required it. For a time you could do Apple Card installments without a carrier if you bought it online but never in store. I assume there is carrier pressure to tie the phones to the carriers. Activating iPhones on carriers was a key metric at the Apple Store.
Previously:
Update (2026-08-03): John Gruber (Mastodon):
Credit-risk assessment is seemingly part of it. There’s a lot of fraud in iPhone purchases specifically and cell phone service generally. The big three carriers do a significant amount of risk assessment before letting you open a new postpaid account; that you have an active account with one of them is a signal that you’re not trying to lease an iPhone using phony credentials in order to sell it.
But the bigger reason is the complex nature of the contracts between Apple and each of the big three carriers.
Apple has revealed its new hardware leasing program called Apple Upgrade, which is being offered in collaboration with Klarna. This is Apple’s pitch:
Introducing Apple Upgrade, a new way to always have the Apple products you love. Lease a new iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple Watch with pocket-friendly payments and terms that work for you. Then easily upgrade to something new at the end of your lease, and return your current device. It’s that simple.
That pitch comes with a footnote that includes other details worth considering:
Okay, so maybe it’s not “that simple” after all.
The program is available for the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch product lines. For the iPhone, monthly payments start at $17.99 for an iPhone 17e and start at $34.99 for an iPhone 17 Pro Max, for leasing periods of either 12 months or 24 months.
For iPads, the starting prices range from $12.99/month to $24.99/month, Macs range from starting prices of $24.99/month to $48.99/month, and the Apple Watch ranges from starting prices of $11.99/month to $47.03/month. But again, these are just starting prices. You can configure a fully loaded 16-inch MacBook Pro that is just under $230/month, and it won’t include AppleCare.
As a point of comparison, under the current program that is being discontinued, I pay $69.50/month for an iPhone 17 Pro Max, but I have a 512GB model, so my lease price for the same phone would be $40.83/month, significantly lower, but keep in mind that doesn’t include AppleCare+, which would add $13.99/month or $139/year for that iPhone. On a monthly basis, that puts a new iPhone 17 Pro Max with 512GB of storage and AppleCare+ at just under $55/month. Still a superior deal, but not nearly as good as the landing page might initially lead you to believe.
At the end of your lease you’ll have six months to decide to return the leased device, during which you’ll continue to make monthly payments, or pay a fee equal to the difference between the original purchase price and your lease payments to buy it outright. Your other option is to enter into a lease for a new device. If you return your leased device in poor condition, Klarna will charge you a damage fee. You can also terminate your lease early if you pay the remaining lease payments in full plus any taxes and fees.
If you lease accessories for your device, those don’t have to be returned. Why? Presumably because they have no value to Apple or Klarna.
Of course, if you have a device to trade in, that monthly figure could be significantly reduced. If I had the iPhone 16 Pro Max I had last year to trade in and leased a 17 Pro Max for 12 months, my monthly payments would be under $1. However, keep in mind that once you’re on the leasing train, you no longer own your iPhone, so future upgrades won’t reduce your payments the next time you swap your device for a new model. If you don’t own it, the value isn’t yours to trade in.
If you’re on the existing iPhone Upgrade Program like me, it’s being discontinued, but Apple has a transition offer for you. The old program spread payments over 24 months with the option to turn in an iPhone for a new one after 12 months. That’s not changing. If you’re paid in full on your first 12 months of an iPhone, you can sign up for the new program, get a new iPhone, and return your old iPhone to Apple, which will close your old account but won’t reduce your lease payments. You’re not obligated to join the new leasing program, though. You can also trade in your old iPhone, ending your finance contract, and buy a new full price iPhone.
As you may have figured out by now, I’m not a fan of this program, though I expect it will be successful.
Apple products, like all consumer electronics, are getting more expensive every day. The monthly payments on a leased device look very attractive compared to the pay-up-front price. For years, car leases have induced people into monthly payments that can become a burden when their financial situation changes. Now the same will be true of iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches.
Maybe as a practical matter this program isn’t that different from the old financing program, but at least there, you owned your device at the end and could just keep using it indefinitely. With the new program, that’s not an option. When your lease is over, you’re empty-handed and faced with leasing again, buying out the lease, or buying at full price with no trade-in, which is objectively worse.
Ultimately, Apple isn’t responsible for customers’ bad financial decisions, but this program feels like Apple is putting its customers in harm’s way.
Apple today announced Apple Upgrade, a new product leasing program provided by Klarna for iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, and iPad available on the Apple Store online, in the Apple Store app, and at Apple Retail Store locations in the United States. Apple Upgrade makes it even easier for customers to get the Apple products they love with a leasing plan that is right for them.
“At Apple, we put the customer at the center of everything we do,” said Karen Rasmussen, Apple’s vice president of the Apple Store online, in a statement, “and we’re thrilled that Apple Upgrade offers our customers, both online and in-store, a more flexible way to pay for the products they love.”
Apple Upgrade offers 12- and 24-month leasing options for iPhone and Apple Watch, and 24- and 36-month leasing options for Mac and iPad. Leasing prices start as low as $17.99 per month for iPhone, $11.99 for Apple Watch, $24.99 for Mac, and $11.99 for iPad. When customers first enroll in Apple Upgrade, they can further lower their monthly lease payments by trading in their currently owned device through Apple Trade In. Customers can also earn 3 percent Daily Cash back when making their lease payments with Apple Card.
Upgrading Has Never Been Easier
With Apple Upgrade, customers can expect the same seamless and personalized shopping experience online and in stores. Apple and Klarna have created a simple enrollment process that provides customers with detailed information regarding their leasing options before they enroll.
Upon choosing their preferred leasing option, customers can apply within minutes — online or in-store — and receive quick approval from Klarna. All applicants will be subject to a soft credit inquiry that will not impact their credit score. Once approved, they can complete their transaction as usual. In-store customers can enjoy their new device right away, while online customers can choose delivery or in-store pickup. Whether they shop in-store or online, all customers can take advantage of Apple’s Personal Setup service to help get their new product ready to use and ask any questions they might have. They can also join the many free and educational Today at Apple sessions to learn how to get started — or go further — with their devices.
At the end of the lease term, customers can upgrade their device to the latest generation, purchase it with a one-time payment, or simply return it and exit the program. In the Klarna app, they can stay on top of all of their lease information, including their billing schedule and remaining payments. Customers can add an AppleCare subscription to protect their products, making the return of their current device and upgrade to a new one even easier.
With the launch of Apple Upgrade, Apple will no longer offer the iPhone Upgrade Program and iPhone Payments in the United States. When eligible, customers currently enrolled in the iPhone Upgrade Program will have the option of leasing a new device with Apple Upgrade, financing with Apple Card Monthly Installments, purchasing the product outright, or choosing carrier financing.
Explore the Lineup and Upgrade Today
iPhone
iPhone 17e delivers incredible value with faster performance, an advanced camera system, enhanced durability, the magic of MagSafe, and double the starting storage at 256GB. iPhone 17 is packed with features users will enjoy every day, including a bigger and brighter display with ProMotion up to 120Hz, all-day battery life with faster charging, a fantastic 48MP Dual Fusion camera system, and the Center Stage front camera. iPhone Air features a thin and light design that is more durable than any previous model, with pro performance, advanced camera systems on the front and back, and all-day battery life. With a unibody design optimized for performance and powered by A19 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are the most powerful Pro models ever made, delivering the best performance, camera systems, and battery life in an iPhone. iPhone leases start at $17.99.
Apple Watch
Apple Watch Series 11 is the ultimate health and fitness companion, featuring the most comprehensive set of health features yet — including groundbreaking hypertension notifications that can alert users to signs of chronic high blood pressure, and sleep score, which helps users understand the quality of their sleep and how to make it more restorative. With up to 24 hours of battery life and a display that’s 2x more scratch-resistant, Apple Watch Series 11 is more convenient than ever to wear throughout the day and night. Apple Watch Ultra 3 is the most advanced Apple Watch — rugged and capable, built for sports and adventure while seamlessly serving as a powerful health companion. It features the largest display ever in an Apple Watch, powered by Apple’s most advanced display technology with LTPO3 and wide-angle OLEDs, along with up to 42 hours of battery life — or up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode. Apple Watch Ultra 3 also features built-in, two-way satellite communications, so users can text emergency services, message friends and family, and share their location even when off the grid. Apple Watch leases start at $11.99.
Mac
Available in 13- and 15-inch models, MacBook Air with M5 delivers incredible performance, up to 18 hours of battery life, and advanced AI capabilities in a thin, light, and durable aluminum design. The M5 family of chips — M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max — deliver even more performance and capabilities to MacBook Pro, the world’s best pro laptop. All MacBook Pro models deliver game-changing performance and advanced AI capabilities, and include a Liquid Retina XDR display with a nano-texture option, an advanced 12MP Center Stage camera, and up to 24 hours of battery life. Powered by the M4 chip, iMac is the world’s best all-in-one and features a nano-texture display option, a 12MP Center Stage camera, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity — all in its strikingly thin design. Mac Studio with M4 Max and M3 Ultra is the most powerful Mac ever made, delivering groundbreaking pro and AI performance, plus extensive connectivity with Thunderbolt 5 in its compact and quiet design that can live right on a desk. Mac leases start at $24.99.
iPad
iPad Air features blazing performance, 12GB of unified memory, and fast connectivity, empowering users to be productive and creative wherever they are. With the Ultra Retina XDR display and the power of M5, iPad Pro offers the most advanced iPad experience, packing powerful performance in a stunningly thin and light design. iPad mini delivers the full iPad experience in a device users can hold in the palm of their hand. Accessories such as Magic Keyboard extend the versatility of iPad Air and iPad Pro, while Apple Pencil Pro unlocks even more magical capabilities for illustrating, note-taking, annotating, and more on iPad Air, iPad Pro, and iPad mini. iPad leases start at $11.99.
More info about Apple Upgrade here.
MacDailyNews Take: Here’s the fine print:
Apple Card is subject to credit approval, available only for qualifying applicants in the United States, and issued by Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Salt Lake City Branch.
Subject to eligibility and credit approval.
Upgrades require entering into a new lease and returning your prior device, and are subject to eligibility and credit approval.
AppleCare delivers exceptional service and support, with flexible options for Apple users. Customers can choose AppleCare+ to cover their new product, or AppleCare One to protect multiple products in one simple plan. Both plans include coverage for accidents like drops and spills, theft and loss protection on eligible products, battery replacement service, and 24/7 support from Apple Experts. For more information, visit apple.com/applecare.
Apple Card Monthly Installments (ACMI) is a 0 percent APR payment option that is only available if users select it at checkout in the U.S. for eligible products purchased at Apple and is subject to credit approval and credit limit. See support.apple.com/en-us/102730 for more information about eligible products. Additional limits and restrictions apply. See the Apple Card Customer Agreement for more information about ACMI.
Apple Watch Series 11 with Ion-X glass has a ceramic coating that provides 2x more scratch resistance than Series 10 with Ion-X glass.
Subject to availability.
This offer is for a consumer lease, not a purchase or loan. Lease provided by Klarna Inc. for 12-, 24-, or 36-month term. 12- and 36-month terms not available for all device models. Your first monthly payment is due approximately 30 days after device is shipped or available for pickup. Lease approval is subject to eligibility and is based on creditworthiness. Monthly payments are based on the selected device and lease term. For example:
For an iPhone 17 Pro 256GB with a purchase price of $1,099 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit), the typical monthly payment is $31.99 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit) for a 24-month lease term and $45.99 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit) for a 12-month lease term.
For an Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS) 42mm with a purchase price of $399 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit), the typical monthly payment is $11.99 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit) for a 24-month lease term and $21.99 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit) for a 12-month lease term.
For an 11-inch iPad Pro 256GB with a purchase price of $1,199 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit), the typical monthly payment is $24.99 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit) for a 36-month lease term and $31.99 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit) for a 24-month lease term.
For a 14-inch MacBook Pro 16GB with a purchase price of $1,999 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit), the typical monthly payment is $38.99 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit) for a 36-month lease term and $53.99 (excluding taxes and any trade-in credit) for a 24-month lease term.
No security deposit required. A trade-in device may reduce monthly payments. Advertised monthly payment amount may not include a trade-in device’s estimated value. Upgrades are not guaranteed and are subject to eligibility and approval.
For iPhone only: In order to lease an iPhone, you must select an eligible carrier (AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon), but you cannot use a prepaid carrier plan. A leased iPhone is always unlocked, so you can switch carriers at any time, subject to your carrier’s terms.
Terminating the Apple Upgrade lease: Closing your lease and returning your device terminates your lease. You may incur substantial fees if you terminate your lease before the end of your initial lease term. You may have the option to upgrade to a new device by entering into a new lease agreement and returning your prior device. If you upgrade, your new monthly payments may be greater than your prior monthly payments. If you do not upgrade, terminate your lease, or purchase your device by the end of the initial lease term, the lease will convert to a month-to-month lease for up to six months. Your monthly payments may increase during the month-to-month periods. If you take no action at the end of your extension period, you will be charged the purchase fee under your lease. You will not own your device at the end of your lease, unless you pay the purchase fee. Insurance is not included in your lease, and you may incur damage fees if the device is lost, stolen, or not returned in the condition required by the lease.
Apple Upgrade lease eligibility: Leases are only available to U.S. residents (excluding residents of U.S. territories). Leased devices are only available for shipping to U.S. addresses (excluding U.S. territories) or pick up at Apple Retail stores in the U.S. (excluding U.S. territories). To be eligible for a lease, you must be at least 18 years old (or the legal age in your state of residence), have a valid Social Security Number or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN), have an accepted credit or debit card, have an Apple Account in good standing, have a Klarna Account, and be able to receive security verification codes via text message. Leases are not available on refurbished accessories or online at the following special stores: Apple Employee Purchase Plan; participating corporate Employee Purchase Programs; Apple at Work for small businesses or enterprises; Government, Education, or Veterans and Military Purchase Programs.
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Apple is advancing several key product and service initiatives beyond its smart glasses efforts, according to details shared in Bloomberg News’ Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter. These include refreshed Apple Watch models heading into late-stage testing, a comprehensive update across its entire Mac lineup to meet AI-driven demand, a new leasing program with Klarna, and a navigation partnership with Ford.
Three New Apple Watch Models in Late-Stage Testing
Apple is currently testing three new Apple Watch models expected this fall: the Series 12 in both Wi-Fi-only and cellular versions (internally codenamed N237 and N238) and the Ultra 4 (N240). No new Apple Watch SE is planned for 2026, following the prior year’s refresh of that model.
These updates will retain the existing design language rather than introducing a visual overhaul. Focus areas include performance improvements via new processors and enhancements to health and fitness tracking capabilities. A more significant redesign of the Apple Watch is in the works but is not expected for another year or two. Work also continues on a blood-sugar monitoring feature, a long-term project originally conceived during the Steve Jobs era, with availability targeted later this decade.
Full Mac Lineup Overhaul for AI Demand
Apple is preparing new versions of every Mac it currently sells, timed across this fall and into next year, to capitalize on demand for powerful machines suited to artificial intelligence workloads.
The initial wave this fall is expected to include a refreshed entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the M6 chip and updated iMac models (the first significant desktop refresh in some time). Later in late 2026 or early 2027, higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring OLED displays and touchscreen capabilities are planned (using M5 Pro and M5 Max chips in the first generation of the redesigned versions). Updated MacBook Air models (13- and 15-inch), a refreshed MacBook Neo with an A19 Pro chip and increased memory plus potential new colors, plus new Mac mini (M6 and M5 Pro) and Mac Studio (M5 Max and M5 Ultra) configurations are also in development. Timing for some desktop models may depend on memory chip supply availability amid broader industry constraints. Further redesigns and chip updates (including M7 variants) are mapped into 2027 and beyond.
Apple Upgrade Device Leasing Program with Klarna
Apple plans to launch “Apple Upgrade,” a leasing program in partnership with Klarna, on July 28th. It will cover most iPhone, Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch models and represents one of the largest shifts in how the company sells devices.
Lease terms are expected to run 24 months for iPhones and Apple Watches and 36 months for Macs and iPads. Customers can make monthly payments, pay off the device early, upgrade to a newer model before the term ends, keep the device, or return it at the end of the period (with some options potentially involving additional fees). The program requires a soft credit check, will be available online and in U.S. Apple Stores, and will not bundle AppleCare.
A soft credit check (also called a soft inquiry or soft pull) is a review of your credit report that does not affect your credit score. Lenders or companies use it to pre-qualify you, check eligibility, or review an existing account, without the temporary score dip that comes from a hard inquiry (which is used for actual loan/credit applications). Soft checks still appear on your own credit report but are not visible to other lenders.
Certain entry-level models (such as the Apple Watch SE, base iPad, iPhone 16, and MacBook Neo) and business/education purchases are excluded. It is intended to replace or wind down new enrollments in existing iPhone Upgrade and standard financing options, with marketing emphasizing lower monthly payments.
Apple Maps Integration with Ford’s Universal Electric Vehicle Platform
Apple and Ford have announced that Apple Maps will be integrated directly into Ford’s upcoming Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) Platform, starting in 2027, via Apple’s new MapKit for Automotive SDK. This will deliver native navigation on vehicle displays—including turn-by-turn directions with natural language, real-time traffic and incident information, detailed place cards, intelligent EV routing with battery preconditioning—without requiring a paired iPhone (though CarPlay remains available as an option).
Road-level Maps data will also support Ford’s Latitude AI team in developing enhanced hands-free driving experiences, including next-generation BlueCruise capabilities for a more seamless on-ramp-to-off-ramp experience. The UEV Platform underpins Ford’s planned affordable electric vehicles, beginning with a midsize electric truck targeted around the $30,000 price point.
These developments reflect Apple’s broader hardware refresh cycle and service expansions amid rising component costs and growing demand for AI-capable devices and integrated experiences. As always, details remain subject to change as the company finalizes plans ahead of expected fall announcements.
MacDailyNews Take: These developments reflect Apple’s broader hardware refresh cycle and service expansions amid rising component costs and growing demand for AI-capable devices and integrated experiences. As always, details remain subject to change as the company finalizes plans ahead of expected fall announcements.
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