Tim Cook attends a White House dinner with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman; Platform X launches its encrypted messaging service, “Chat”; designer Abedur Choudhury leaves Apple; a new WhatsApp feature allows communication with other apps; Jeff Williams retires; official touchscreen iPhone Pro cases are released; the foldable iPhone boasts the largest battery; iPhone 17 sales in China reach record highs; Apple uses 3D printing in the Apple Watch and iPhone Air; and other exciting news on the sidelines…
Tim Cook attends White House dinner with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
Apple CEO Tim Cook attended a dinner hosted by US President Donald Trump at the White House in honor of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Cook had previously met with the prince to discuss education and app development opportunities, and since then, Apple has invested $2 billion in Saudi companies. The company also opened an online store in the Kingdom in 2025 and plans to open physical stores in 2026. In addition to Cook, several other prominent tech leaders attended the dinner, including Elon Musk, Michael Dell, Jensen Huang, and Linda Su.
Apple begins selling refurbished iPad Air devices with M3 chip at a reduced price.
Apple has announced the availability of refurbished iPad Air devices with the M3 chip in its US and several European stores, marking the first time these devices have been offered since the device's launch last March. These devices are being sold at a discount of approximately 15% compared to new models, with the 11-inch, 128GB Wi-Fi-only version priced at $509 instead of $599. Apple confirms that the refurbished devices come with a new battery and outer casing, along with a new box and all accessories such as a charger and USB-C cable, after undergoing a thorough cleaning and inspection process to ensure they are in near-new condition. They also include a one-year warranty with the option to add AppleCare+. While these offers provide some savings, better deals may be available on Amazon.
WhatsApp is testing the feature to run two accounts on iPhone.
WhatsApp is testing a new feature in its beta version on iOS via TestFlight that allows iPhone users to manage two different accounts within the same app, without needing WhatsApp Business or alternative solutions. The feature adds a new section in Settings called “Accounts,” from which a second account can be added, whether with a new phone number, an existing account, or an account linked via a QR code. Each account maintains its own chat history, backup settings, notifications, and privacy settings separately, and users can easily switch between accounts by long-pressing or double-tapping the Settings tab. The system also supports App Lock using Face ID or Touch ID to protect the accounts. WhatsApp has not yet announced an official release date, but the testing phase suggests the feature is coming soon.
Google launches its smarter Gemini 3 model
Google has unveiled Gemini 3 Pro, its latest and most advanced AI model to date, boasting superior deep understanding and contextual capabilities to deliver clearer and more accurate answers. The new model outperforms its predecessor, Gemini 2.5 Pro, in all tests, offering direct and focused responses without unnecessary embellishment. The company describes it as a “true intellectual partner.” Gemini 3 has begun rolling out across various Google platforms, including AI in Search, the Gemini app, AI Studio, Vertex AI, and the new Google Antigravity development platform, featuring modern interfaces with interactive visuals and an enhanced shopping experience. The company has also launched a more powerful version, Gemini 3 Deep Think, capable of solving complex problems, which will soon be available to Google AI Ultra subscribers.
How Apple uses 3D printing in the Apple Watch and iPhone Air
Apple highlighted the use of 3D printing of 100% recycled titanium in three products: the Apple Watch Ultra 3 case, the high-end Apple Watch Series 11 case, and the USB-C port in the iPhone Air. The technology builds the component layer by layer using metal powder, reducing waste compared to traditional manufacturing and allowing for nearly half the raw material used in watch cases, with estimates suggesting savings of over 400 tons of titanium this year.
For the iPhone Air, Apple asserts that the printed USB-C port is thinner, stronger, and uses 33% less material. Manufacturing begins by converting titanium into powder, then lasers build it up in layers. After removing excess material, the components are separated and undergo final quality control.
Apple achieves record sales in China thanks to the iPhone 17
Apple had an exceptional month in China during October, with iPhone sales surging 37% year-over-year, driven by strong demand for the iPhone 17 series. The iPhone accounted for one in four smartphones sold in the country, a feat the company hasn't achieved since 2022. The base iPhone 17 led the growth, while other models like the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max contributed to over 80% of Apple's total sales. This marks the company's best start to a December quarter ever, surpassing its previous peak in 2021. Despite anticipated competition from Huawei's Mate 80 series, the current momentum suggests Apple's continued market dominance. Overall smartphone sales in China also rose by 8%, thanks to the performance of Apple and local companies like Xiaomi, which climbed to second place for the first time in over a decade. Despite this success, the iPhone Air continues to struggle in China, as in other markets.
The first foldable iPhone may have the largest battery in Apple's history.
Apple is preparing to launch its first foldable iPhone in the fall of 2026, and reports indicate the device may come with a battery capacity between 5400 and 5800 mAh, the largest ever in an iPhone. This surpasses the iPhone 17 Pro Max's 5088 mAh battery, as well as competitors like the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold (5015 mAh) and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 (4400 mAh). Apple is focusing on improving power efficiency while maintaining thin components, using high-density battery cells. The device is expected to feature a 7.8-inch main display when unfolded and a 5.5-inch external display, with Touch ID integrated into a side button instead of Face ID. It will also have four cameras, including a front-facing camera, an under-display camera, and two rear cameras, along with a second-generation C2 modem and no physical SIM card slot. These specifications, if accurate, make battery life a top priority for Apple's first foldable device.
Apple adds drag-and-drop multitasking feature in iPadOS 26.2
In the third beta of iPadOS 26.2, Apple has revamped the Slide Over feature, which users missed after its removal in iOS 26. It now functions more closely like it did in iPadOS 18. Users can drag and drop apps from the Dock, Search, or App Library to various locations on the screen to access multiple modes, such as Slide Over, Split View (similar to Side View), or open a larger or smaller window in the middle. Visual indicators show the app's position, and any open app can be replaced without closing it completely, providing greater flexibility in switching between apps. This update brings back the multitasking experience that iPad users previously loved and is expected to be released to the public this December.
Tim Cook may not retire completely after leaving his position as CEO of Apple.
Reports indicate that Apple is preparing for CEO Tim Cook's departure next year, but he is unlikely to retire entirely. He may assume the role of chairman of the board, succeeding Arthur Levinson, who has reached the age limit of 75 and is ineligible to run again. This change could be announced at the annual shareholders meeting in February or March. It is anticipated that Cook, 65, could remain chairman for up to ten years before the same policy applies to him. It remains unclear whether he will become a full-fledged chairman focused on managing the board or an executive chairman involved in day-to-day decisions to facilitate the leadership transition to the new CEO, expected to be John Ternos, senior vice president of hardware engineering. Cook has led Apple since 2011, and with 15 years at the helm, the company appears to be developing a well-considered transition plan to ensure its stability.
Platform X launches “Chat” encrypted messaging service
Platform X has announced the launch of a new service called Chat as an alternative to its direct messaging service, featuring end-to-end encryption. The service is currently available on iOS and includes voice and video calls, self-destructing messages, file sharing, and the ability to edit or delete sent messages. Older messages are automatically migrated to the new system, with options to prevent screenshots and alert users if someone attempts to take them. However, the company clarified that the encryption does not extend to the sender and recipient's data, and the system lacks complete protection against man-in-the-middle attacks, meaning that conversations could theoretically be intercepted without users' knowledge. X is developing tools to verify the integrity of the encryption and plans to add voice messaging soon, as well as release an Android version.
Miscellaneous news
Apple has released a new beta update specifically for AirPods Pro 3. This update coincides with the iOS 26.2 beta, which expands the real-time translation feature to include European Union countries, suggesting a possible connection between the update and this feature. Apple hasn't revealed details about the new release, but with iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe, users can install beta updates directly from the AirPods Pro settings when connected to their iPhone, iPad, or Mac, simplifying the testing process. Developers can enable the beta download option within the settings.
Apple has announced the expansion of its AppleCare+ service in India, offering users more flexible monthly and annual plans, along with a new option that includes theft or loss protection for first-time iPhone users. This option provides coverage for up to two instances of theft or loss per year, in addition to standard benefits such as battery replacement, 24/7 technical support, and unlimited accidental repairs, starting at 799 Indian rupees. Users can activate the service directly from the Settings app on their eligible devices, and coverage begins immediately after subscribing.
Reports indicate that Abedur Choudhury, the designer who unveiled the iPhone Air at Apple's September event, has left the company to join an AI startup, a move that has reportedly caused a stir internally given his status as one of the design team's most promising young talents. His departure is not linked to weak iPhone Air sales; Choudhury joined the industrial design team in 2019, the same year Jony Ive left to start his own company, followed by a string of other prominent designers. With the retirement of former COO Jeff Williams last week, the design team now reports directly to CEO Tim Cook.
Apple is reportedly developing official iPhone Pro cases that can act as an additional touch interface, according to new leaks from China. The idea is to integrate touch- or pressure-sensitive layers within the case, allowing the phone to recognize them and translate traditional button functions into touches or gestures on the case's surface, such as controlling volume or launching the camera. Previous patents suggest the possibility of adding sensors like Touch ID to the case itself, along with communication via technologies like NFC. This move appears linked to Apple's anticipated design for its 20th-anniversary iPhone in 2027, which is rumored to feature a curved screen around all edges and no physical buttons, making the interactive case a natural complement to this design. The concept could offer a more comfortable experience and reduce errors when using a nearly full-screen phone.
Apple has officially announced the retirement of Jeff Williams after more than 25 years with the company, where he was one of its most prominent figures. Its leaders And one of the most influential. Williams joined Apple in 1998 and became Chief Operating Officer (COO) in 2015 before being succeeded by Sabih Khan this year. He then continued until November as Senior Vice President of Design, Watch, and Health. Throughout his career, he oversaw Apple's global operations and customer service, led the development of the Apple Watch and the company's health strategy, and has led the design team since 2023. He was once considered a potential candidate for CEO. Williams expressed his gratitude to Apple and his colleagues, stating that he will dedicate his future time to his family and grandchildren. Tim Cook praised his significant contributions, which helped build a strong global supply chain and launch outstanding products, adding that his legacy will continue through the team he built.
A federal jury has ordered Apple to pay $634 million to medical technology company Massimo for patent infringement related to blood oxygen measurement technology in the Apple Watch. The dispute previously led to a ban on the sale of Apple Watch models with this feature in the United States starting in 2023, before Apple implemented a workaround in 2025 by moving oxygen data processing to the iPhone instead of the watch itself. Although Apple has announced its intention to appeal the verdict, Massimo continues to file new lawsuits challenging these solutions.
WhatsApp is preparing to launch a new feature in the European Union that will allow users to communicate with other apps like BirdyChat and Hayket, in compliance with digital markets regulations. The feature includes the exchange of messages, files, and calls while maintaining the same level of encryption, and will soon appear to users via a notification in their settings for activation.
A federal court in Texas rejected Apple and OpenAI's request to dismiss the lawsuit filed against them by Elon Musk's xAI, meaning the case will proceed. xAI accuses the two companies of conspiring to dominate the artificial intelligence market by integrating Siri with ChatGPT without offering alternatives like its own Grok app. The lawsuit claims this integration forces iPhone users to rely solely on ChatGPT, depriving competitors of integration and data. Apple and OpenAI maintain that the lawsuit is unfounded, as there is no exclusivity agreement preventing the integration of other chatbots with Siri. xAI is asking the court to halt what it calls an "anti-competitive scheme" and to award it billions of dollars in damages.
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