Apple’s Latest Event Was Mid — But I’m Still Buying These

Darrell Booker |Tech + Culture Contributor for Cxmmunity Media
/
Sep 15, 2025

Another Apple event just wrapped, and while they rolled out shiny new updates and sprinkled in their usual marketing fairy dust, let’s keep it real:

Not everything they dropped is worth your money.

But a few things? Actually fire.

Here’s what I’m skipping, what I’m buying, and what I’m keeping my eye on for 2026.

Apple Watch 11 and Ultra 3? Snoozefest

Let’s start with the Apple Watch Series 11.

They finally added 5G, cool… I guess?

But unless you’re out here trying to stream Spotify or download watchOS updates on your wrist at lightning speed, it’s just not that useful. The design hasn’t changed, and the performance bump isn’t groundbreaking. Not enough to drop $399+ on an upgrade.

Then there’s the Apple Watch Ultra 3  which now includes satellite connectivity. Great if you’re backpacking solo through Iceland with no cell service…

but for the rest of us who just forgot to charge our phones on a Target run? Nah.

Verdict: Respectfully skipping both.

AirPods Pro 3 Might Be the Real MVP

improvements that actually make a difference in everyday life.

  • Live Translation built into the buds? Game changer. Whether you’re traveling, working with global teams, or just trying to order food like a pro while abroad …. clutch.
  • They added heart rate and workout tracking, which means if you forget your Apple Watch or don’t wear one at all, you’re still covered.
  • Battery life jumped to 8 hours (from 6), and the fit is better too.
  • Noise Cancellation (ANC) is now 4× stronger, but just to be clear: that’s for you, the listener. It doesn’t mean the person on the other end hears less noise. Your calls will still sound like you’re at Starbucks.

All of that, and they kept the price at $249.

Verdict: Instant cop.

Samsung Was in Their Troll Era

While Apple was announcing all this, Samsung was straight-up live-tweeting the keynote like it was a roast session.

They hit Apple with:

“Let us know when it folds.”

“48MP x 3 still doesn’t equal 200MP”

“Zzz-note… welcome to the party #iCant”

Iconic. Petty. On brand.

And honestly, a little deserved considering what’s coming next (we’ll get to that).

iPhone 17 Air — Light, Thin, and Powerful

Now let’s talk about the iPhone 17 Air

This is the iPhone that caught my attention.

I said before the event that this would probably be the sweet spot, and Apple proved me right.

Here’s why:

  • It’s rocking the A19 Pro chip which is the exact same one inside the iPhone 17 Pro. So you’re getting Pro-level performance without the Pro-level bulk.
  • It has a 48MP Fusion main camera + 2x telephoto, more than enough for casual content or social posting, especially if (like me) you use other cameras for your real work.
  • It’s only 5.6mm thin, but thanks to a full internal redesign and the switch to eSIM only, Apple fit in a high-density battery.
  • iOS 18 includes a new adaptive power-saving mode, which learns how you use your phone and adjusts in real time. Result? All-day battery life, even in that slim form.
  • Wrapped in a titanium frame, protected by Ceramic Shield front and back, and featuring Wi-Fi 7 for faster everything.

Starting at $999, this thing is sleek, fast, and practical and doesn’t feel like a watered-down Pro.

Verdict: This one’s on my list.

iPhone 2025 Lineup — Pricing Breakdown

Here’s how the full lineup shakes out:

  • iPhone 16e — $599
  • iPhone 17 — $799
  • iPhone 17 Air — $999
  • iPhone 17 Pro — $1099

If you want power without Pro bulk, the 17 Air is the sweet spot.

The Accessories Lowkey Slap

Apple also dropped new accessories specifically for the Air:

  • Low-profile MagSafe battery pack that brings total video playback time up to 40 hours
  • 1mm thin cases that protect without ruining the design
  • A lightweight bumper for minimal drop protection without hiding the titanium
  • And yes, a new crossbody strap for all the hands-free, festival-season vibes

Now Let’s Talk 2026: The Foldable iPhone Is Coming

Everything Apple dropped today feels like a setup for the real headliner:

The first-ever foldable iPhone, is rumored for September 2026.

Samsung was clearly trolling because they know Apple’s late to the folding party, but once Apple shows up? It’s a whole new wave.

You can already feel them laying the groundwork:

eSIM only, lighter materials, ultra-thin designs… it’s all pointing toward something bigger (and bendier).

So yeah, I’m probably grabbing the Air this year.

But make no mistake the countdown to the foldable has officially begun.

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