CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple has announced the iPhone Duo, marking its entry into the foldable phone market as the company’s inaugural device of this kind, with U.S. pricing beginning at $1,999. The company revealed the new model on September 9 at its headquarters in Cupertino. During the event, Apple CEO John Ternus introduced the device as part of the company’s latest hardware lineup. Customers in more than 70 countries and regions can start placing preorders on October 16, and the first units are scheduled for delivery and in-store availability on October 23.
Designed with a book-style form factor, the iPhone Duo features two Super Retina XDR displays. When closed, a 5.4-inch screen handles everyday phone functions. Opening the device reveals a 7.6-inch inner display optimized for video streaming, applications, gaming, and multitasking. The device’s chassis is crafted from Grade 5 titanium, and its hinge mechanism comprises over 100 components. Additionally, the phone holds an IP68 certification for splash, water, and dust resistance.
Apple has tailored its mobile software to leverage the expanded foldable screen. The iOS 27.1 operating system, which comes preinstalled, introduces features specifically designed for the larger display. Users can run two apps side-by-side and save preferred app pairings. When open, the phone can also display two Home Screen pages simultaneously. The device includes Touch ID embedded in the side button, allowing biometric authentication in either configuration.
Foldable Screen Boosts Multitasking and Camera Capabilities
The rear camera setup consists of a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera and a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide camera. The main camera features an optical-quality 2x telephoto option and supports zero shutter lag. Previewing selfies taken with the rear cameras is possible on the external display before capturing the photo. Duo Preview enables subjects to view the framing while another user controls the camera. The main camera captures 4K video at up to 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision support.
Powering the foldable iPhone is Apple’s A20 Pro processor combined with a dual-battery architecture. A custom vapor chamber assists in heat dissipation during intensive tasks. Apple claims up to 31 hours of video playback when using the inner screen, increasing to 44 hours when utilizing the outer display. The device supports fast wired and wireless charging and is equipped with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity options.
Pricing Details and Availability in Over 70 Markets Starting October
Consumers can purchase the iPhone Duo with storage options of 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. The device is available in star white and night sky finishes. In the United States, the starting price is $1,999, while in the UAE, it is AED 8,499. The initial release begins on October 23, following preorders starting one week earlier. On October 30, Apple plans to expand sales to an additional 28 countries and regions. The model exclusively uses eSIM technology globally, eliminating physical SIM cards.
By introducing the iPhone Duo, Apple steps into the established foldable smartphone market with a unique hardware and software combination. Its innovative design merges a compact external display with the largest foldable screen Apple has integrated into an iPhone. The device also incorporates Apple’s processors, cameras, connectivity features, and mobile operating system into the foldable form factor. Customers will receive their first units approximately six weeks after the September announcement. The October rollout signifies the commercial debut of Apple’s first foldable iPhone.