iOS 26.1 Beta, iPhone Scratches & Apple TV Rumors: Top Stories

The world of Apple continues to buzz with activity even as the latest iPhone launch period concludes. From software refinements to hardware observations and upcoming promotions, there’s much to keep enthusiasts engaged. Apple’s ecosystem remains in constant motion, offering users a steady stream of updates, discoveries, and opportunities worth paying attention to.

Developers and public beta testers have now received the initial beta version of iOS 26.1. This early release expands the availability of Apple Intelligence and AirPods Live Translation to more languages and introduces a fresh Liquid Design aesthetic for the dial pad within the Phone app. Visual refinements have also been applied to Safari, Calendar, and several other built-in applications, signaling Apple’s ongoing commitment to interface evolution.

A number of the newly released iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air models displayed in Apple Stores have shown signs of scratching, especially on darker color options like Deep Blue and Space Black. Apple has responded by pointing to worn MagSafe chargers used in retail environments as the likely cause, noting that these marks can typically be removed with proper cleaning. The company does acknowledge, however, that over time, certain areas, such as the edges around the camera, may develop minor abrasions as part of normal, everyday use.

For those curious about long-term battery care, a year-long experiment with the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers some insight. By setting a custom charge limit of 80%, the test aimed to evaluate its effect on battery health compared to a device charged without restrictions. The findings provide a useful look at whether adopting such charging habits could benefit your own device over the long run.

Rumors continue to circulate regarding an updated Apple TV, expected to arrive before the year ends. Following Apple’s recent hardware announcements, speculation has resurfaced about what new capabilities the next set-top box might bring. Enthusiasts are watching closely for any official hints or leaks in the coming months.

One highly anticipated iOS 26 feature, support for U.S. passports in the Wallet app, was not ready in time for the initial release. Apple has since updated its features page to confirm that the Digital ID capability will arrive later this year. While the first iOS 26.1 beta does not show visible signs of this function, it’s worth noting that similar Wallet ID features, such as driver’s licenses for various states, can often be activated by Apple on the server side without requiring a full system update.

Students should take note: Apple’s annual Back to School promotion is nearing its end in the U.S. and several other countries. This offer provides free or discounted accessories, including the new AirPods Pro 3, with the purchase of an eligible Mac or iPad. In addition to these special deals, students also benefit from everyday discounted pricing on Apple products, making now an excellent time to invest in new tech for the academic year.

For those who want a convenient way to stay informed, the weekly MacRumors newsletter delivers a curated summary of the most important Apple-related developments. Subscribers receive a concise roundup of major stories, helping them keep track of everything happening across the Apple landscape without having to search through multiple sources.

(Source: Mac Rumors)