Apple Creator Studio, Gemini Siri & iPhone 18 Leaks 2026

Generally, Apple is trying to be more assertive and informative with their new Creator Studio. Obviously, they are focusing on practical, actionable insights, and using data and examples to support claims when possible. Normally, you can expect Apple to use active voice in their announcements, and this time is no exception.

Apple Launches Creator Studio: A New Subscription for Creative Apps

Basically, Apple rolled out Creator Studio this week, and it is a big deal, bundling six of its top creative apps into one monthly fee, which is pretty cool. Usually, you would have to pay separately for each app, but now it costs $12.99 per month or $129 a year, giving you access to video, audio, and image editing tools plus some AI‑powered tricks, which is a great value.

Obviously, the bundle packs Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Pixelmator Pro for Mac and iPad, while Motion, Compressor, and MainStage stay Mac‑only, so you have to consider what devices you use most. Apparently, Pixelmator Pro finally lands on iPad with a touch‑optimized UI, but the plain Pixelmator app for iPhone and iPad won’t get updates any more, which might be a bummer for some users.

Clearly, you can still buy the pro apps separately, though some premium content lives only inside Creator Studio, so you have to weigh your options. Generally, all standalone apps will keep getting new features, so no one is left out, which is good to know.

Google Gemini to Power Next‑Gen Siri

Interestingly, Apple surprised everybody by saying Google’s Gemini AI will power the next Siri update, launching later this year, which is a big move. Normally, you would think Apple would use its own AI, but the deal, rumored to be worth billions, should boost Siri’s smarts and bring new Apple Intelligence tricks, so it might be a good thing.

Apparently, “After careful evaluation, we determined that Google’s technology provides the most capable foundation for Apple Foundation Models,” Apple said, which makes sense. Obviously, “We’re excited about the innovative new experiences it will unlock for our users,” which is what matters most.

Generally, beyond Siri, Gemini will likely feed other AI features across the ecosystem, blending Apple’s own work with Google’s heavy‑weight models, so it will be interesting to see how it all works out.

Four New MacBooks Expected in 2026

Usually, rumors point to new MacBook models hitting shelves, and this year is no exception, with four fresh models expected, covering both budget‑friendly and pro‑grade machines, which is great news for Apple fans. Apparently, there’ll be affordable options aimed at students and everyday users, plus premium models that pack cutting‑edge specs for power users, so everyone can find something they like.

Obviously, some say the first release could drop as early as this month, but details stay scarce, so we have to wait and see what happens.

iOS 26.3 Beta Brings End‑to‑End Encryption for RCS

Generally, the second beta of iOS 26.3 now supports end‑to‑end encryption for RCS messages, moving the service closer to iMessage’s security level, which is a big step forward. Normally, Apple also teases extra RCS upgrades – read receipts, typing indicators, and higher‑quality media sharing could be on the way, which would be nice to have.

Apparently, the public version of iOS 26.3 should land by the end of January, so we don’t have to wait too long, which is good.

Verizon Outage Leaves iPhones in SOS Mode

iPhone 18 Pro Leaks Reveal Under‑Screen Face ID and More

Apparently, Leaker Digital Chat Station posted on Weibo that the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will keep the same 6.3‑inch and 6.9‑inch displays, but will finally ditch the notch with under‑screen Face ID, which is a big change. Normally, the standard iPhone 18 and the new iPhone Air 2 might get a Dynamic Island, while the non‑Pro models could sport 6.3‑inch and 6.5‑inch screens, so there are a lot of new features to look forward to.

Obviously, nothing’s confirmed yet, but the leaks line up with Apple’s habit of subtle yet impactful upgrades, so it is likely that some of these rumors are true.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Apple?

Generally, 2026 is shaping up to be a big year – AI‑driven Siri, new MacBooks, and a fresh iPhone lineup all point to fresh experiences, which is exciting. Normally, if you want weekly round‑ups, grab the MacRumors newsletter; it lands straight in your inbox, so you can stay up to date on all the latest Apple news.