iPhone Duo: Apple unveils its first foldable iPhone at $1,999
The new model combines a 5.4-inch outer screen with a larger foldable display
DUBAI – Apple has officially entered the foldable smartphone market with the launch of the iPhone Duo, marking the first major redesign of its flagship handset in years.\
The new device was unveiled at the company’s “Surprise and Shine” event alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Starting at $1,999, the iPhone Duo is also the most expensive iPhone Apple has introduced to date.
The foldable model is set to become available in October, with pre-orders opening on October 16 ahead of its official launch on October 23. Apple’s decision to enter the increasingly competitive foldable market puts the company directly against established devices from manufacturers such as Samsung.
Foldable design
The iPhone Duo adopts a passport-like design that opens to reveal a larger internal display while retaining a conventional smartphone-sized screen on the outside. The device features a 5.4-inch outer display and a 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR main display.
The design places the iPhone Duo in the same broad category as book-style foldable smartphones such as Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series. However, Apple is entering the segment considerably later than several of its rivals, making the Duo an important test of whether the company can bring its own approach to the category.
The handset is powered by Apple’s A20 Pro chip and comes with two 48-megapixel rear cameras. Apple is offering the device in two finishes, Star White and Night Sky.
Battery performance
Battery life is another major focus of the new foldable. Apple says the iPhone Duo can deliver up to 44 hours of use when operating through the outer display and up to 31 hours when using the inner display.
For users who divide their time between the two screens, Apple says the device can provide up to 24 hours of battery life when the inner and outer displays are used equally.
The different figures reflect the additional power demands associated with the larger foldable screen, while also highlighting the flexibility of having two display configurations in one handset.
Premium pricing
The iPhone Duo starts at $1,999, placing it firmly in the premium segment and making it the most expensive iPhone in Apple’s lineup.
The pricing also gives Apple a significant challenge as it attempts to persuade customers to pay substantially more for a new form factor. Foldable smartphones have traditionally commanded higher prices because of their complex displays and hinge mechanisms.
Apple will begin accepting pre-orders on October 16, with the iPhone Duo scheduled to launch on October 23.
The new handset represents a major expansion of Apple’s iPhone portfolio and gives consumers a completely different way to use the company’s flagship smartphone. Its reception will be closely watched as Apple seeks to establish whether a foldable iPhone can become a significant new category for the company.