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CUPERTINO, Calif. - Apple Inc. (AAPL), the world’s largest technology company by market value at $3.01 trillion, has unveiled iOS 26, a substantial update to its mobile operating system, featuring a refreshed design and enhanced Apple Intelligence capabilities. The update, which is currently available for developer testing, is expected to be released to the public this fall. According to InvestingPro analysis, Apple maintains its position as a prominent player in the Technology Hardware sector, though current valuations suggest the stock is trading above its Fair Value. For deeper insights into Apple’s valuation and 12 additional exclusive ProTips, explore InvestingPro’s comprehensive research report.
The new iOS version introduces a "Liquid Glass" design, adding a translucent material that reflects and refracts the surroundings, aiming to bring focus to content and vitality to the system’s controls and navigation. This design also extends to the Home Screen and Lock Screen, offering more personalization options.
Apple Intelligence has been expanded to provide live translation in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, facilitating cross-language communication. This feature is powered by Apple-built models that operate entirely on the device, ensuring privacy for users’ conversations.
Moreover, visual intelligence now allows users to search and take action on anything they view across apps, such as adding events to their calendar or searching for similar images and products on supported platforms like Google and Etsy.
iOS 26 enhances the Phone app with a unified layout and introduces Call Screening to help users manage unwanted calls. Messages now include message screening from unknown senders and new conversation enhancements, such as custom backgrounds and polls.
CarPlay also receives updates for a more streamlined experience, including a new compact view for incoming calls and integration of widgets and Live Activities to keep users informed without distracting from driving.
Apple Music now offers Lyrics Translation and Pronunciation, and Apple Maps introduces Visited Places, which is protected with end-to-end encryption. Wallet updates include new payment options and refreshed boarding passes with live updates.
Additional features include a new Apple Games app, enhanced AirPods capabilities, and improved parental controls. Advanced fingerprinting protection in Safari and new accessibility features such as Accessibility Reader and Braille Access are also part of the update.
The iOS 26 update will be compatible with iPhone 11 and later models. The Apple Intelligence features require supported devices, including all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad and Mac models with M1 and later chips.
This announcement is based on a press release statement from Apple Inc.
In other recent news, Apple Inc. has been the focus of several analysts’ reports, with varied perspectives on its stock. UBS has maintained a Neutral rating with a $210 price target, based on a survey that highlighted a decline in iPhone purchase intent in key markets like the U.S. and China. Meanwhile, Wedbush analysts have kept an Outperform rating with a $270 price target, expressing optimism about Apple’s AI strategy ahead of its Worldwide Developers Conference. KeyBanc analysts reiterated a Sector Weight rating, noting healthy spending trends but expressing caution regarding Apple’s valuation.
On the revenue front, UBS reported a 13% year-over-year growth in Apple’s App Store revenue for May, despite challenging comparisons. Morgan Stanley also highlighted this growth, noting a 10% increase in U.S. App Store revenue and maintaining an Overweight rating with a $235 price target. They pointed out potential risks if a significant number of users bypass the App Store for in-app purchases. These recent developments provide a snapshot of Apple’s current market position and future prospects as analyzed by different financial firms.
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