Thursday, September 17, 2026

The iPhone update is chock-full of smart upgrades

PLUS: How to remind yourself of anything.

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It’s launch week for the new iPhones! Except Apple only has two new models on offer, which hasn’t happened in a very long time. That’s right—if you go to an Apple store on Friday, the only new iPhone models you’ll find are the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. In October, Apple will release the highly anticipated foldable iPhone Duo. Considering the high price of the Duo and the $100 price bumps for the Pro devices, that means there’s no new sub-$1,000 iPhone—yet. Apple hasn’t announced the device, but the base iPhone 18 is expected to launch early next year. So if you don’t typically buy a Pro iPhone or feel like you need to spend the extra cash on one, just wait it out. If you are strictly an iPhone Pro kind of shopper, then here’s my review. TL;DR: They’re very good.


Whether you’re upgrading your hardware or not, this week is also the release of the latest versions of Apple’s software, from iOS 27 to macOS 27, so it’s time to update your devices. We’ve got the lowdown on all the top new features in each of Apple’s operating systems, including helpful features in Safari, how to set up Shortcuts, and everything you can do with the new Siri AI assistant. Just make sure to enter the waitlist so you can try the Siri AI beta.

Julian Chokkattu

Senior Gear Editor

All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

THIS WEEKS PICKS

The iPhone 18 Pro Is for the Shutterbugs

 

By Julian Chokkattu

 

Fun camera features help make these candy bar iPhones stand out from the dazzle of the folding iPhone Duo.

READ MORE

Try These 3 iOS 27 Safari Settings to Get More Out of Apple’s Browser

 

By Reece Rogers

 

Apple’s Safari browser gets a few helpful automation and personalization features in iOS 27.

READ MORE

Here’s What Snap’s Expensive Specs Can Actually Do

 

By Boone Ashworth

 

Snap thinks its chunky, pricey smart glasses are the future of human computing, powered by a new AI app and features that do everything from translating languages to improving your golf swing.

READ MORE

HOW TO

How To Create Custom Windows 11 Notifications to Remind Yourself of Anything

 

I keep my to-do list and calendar up-to-date at all times—if I stop writing things down and ticking off boxes, my brain turns to total mush. Most of us live noisy lives full of distractions, and, for me, having an easily accessible list of plans and tasks makes my overstimulating existence slightly more bearable. But sometimes, a pen-and-paper agenda isn’t enough—after all, you do have to remember to check it in the first place. Programming reminders to your desktop is a great way to hold yourself accountable and make it impossible to miss a meeting, dinner party, birthday, or doctor’s appointment. Read the WIRED guide to creating custom notifications on Windows 11.—writes Elana Klein.

READ MORE

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 FE Is Nice Enough, but You Can Do Better

 

By Simon Hill

 

Samsung is resting on its laurels with the midrange S26 FE, with an unwelcome price bump and only a new processor to show for it.

READ MORE

I Fixed a Tractor Using John Deere’s Self-Repair Service. Farmers Aren’t Sold on It

 

By Boone Ashworth

 

The agricultural machine manufacturer has a subscription service that lets owners repair their own equipment. Why is barely anybody using it?

READ MORE

People Are Pissed Off and Ready to Own Their Shit

 

By Boone Ashworth

 

A grassroots live tour by YouTuber Louis Rossmann highlights growing resistance to companies that keep people from controlling their devices.

READ MORE

Boox’s Beloved Palma E-Reader Gets Its Third Generation

 

By Nena Farrell

 

The e-paper device maker also launched two new color digital notebooks last night, the Note Air6 C and Mini C.

READ MORE

Hate Mac and Windows? This Is the Best Linux Laptop Around

 

By Scott Gilbertson

 

System76’s latest Linux laptop wraps a speedy processor, plenty of ports, and a great operating system in a svelte, 16-inch package.

READ MORE

Dyson Just Dropped New Lidar-Guided Robot Vacuums. Which One’s Worth It?

 

By Nena Farrell

 

The Nurovi line includes three robovacs. But to get the one I’m most intrigued by, you’ll need a Costco membership.

READ MORE

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