This fall, there’s a new apple coming. It’s been 20 years in the making, and its launch will be the biggest in apple history. How was it invented? What makes it special? And will it live up to the hype? We hear the story behind this apple's conception and birth, with help from Helen Zaltzman of The Allusionist podcast, and NPR reporter Dan Charles.

Today's sponsors: Download the mobile app or go to instacart.com and enter promo code SPORKFUL at checkout for $10 off and free delivery on your first order. Go to meundies.com/sporkful to get 15% off your first pair, free shipping, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Get access to 500+ more Sporkful episodes and lots of other Stitcher goodness when you sign up for Stitcher Premium: www.StitcherPremium.com/Sporkful (promo code: SPORKFUL).

Transcript available at www.sporkful.com.