Apple's Foldable iPhone Duo and Latest Hardware Discussed on Engadget Podcast

The podcast recaps Apple's launch event, focusing on the company's first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo. It also covers the iPhone 18 Pro's new variable aperture camera and minor updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods. Hosts share their impressions on how Apple's foldable compares to Samsung's pioneering design.
The Engadget podcast episode, hosted by Devindra Hardawar and Karissa Bell, offers a thorough breakdown of Apple's September 2026 launch event. The primary discussion centers on the iPhone Duo, marking Apple's first venture into the foldable smartphone category, a space previously dominated by Samsung.
Beyond the foldable, the hosts examine the iPhone 18 Pro's variable aperture camera, noting it may be overshadowed by the Duo. They also cover incremental updates to the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, plus the AirPods 5, which feature improved noise cancellation at a lower price point.
Apple's entry into the foldable market could significantly legitimize the form factor for mainstream consumers, potentially accelerating industry-wide adoption. The iPhone 18 Pro's variable aperture camera may set a new benchmark for mobile photography, while the more affordable AirPods 5 could broaden access to premium audio features. Competitors, particularly Samsung, may face increased pressure to differentiate their designs. These hardware updates could ultimately influence consumer upgrade cycles and shape the trajectory of future mobile device development.