CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple has announced the iPhone Duo, representing the company’s debut foldable smartphone, with U.S. prices starting at $1,999. The company revealed the device on September 9 at its Cupertino headquarters. Presented by Apple CEO John Ternus as part of its latest hardware collection, the new model will be available for preorders beginning October 16 in over 70 countries and regions. Customers can expect the first units to arrive at stores and consumers on October 23.
Designed with a book-style form factor, the iPhone Duo features two Super Retina XDR screens. When closed, a 5.4-inch display handles daily phone functions; opening the device unveils a 7.6-inch inner display suited for videos, apps, gaming, and multitasking. The device’s chassis is crafted from Grade 5 titanium, and its hinge mechanism comprises more than 100 parts. Additionally, the phone carries an IP68 rating, ensuring resistance against splashes, water, and dust.
Apple has tailored its mobile operating system to optimize the enhanced folding display. The iPhone Duo will come with iOS 27.1, which incorporates features specifically designed for the new screen orientation. Users will be able to place two apps side by side and save custom app pairings. When opened, the phone can display two Home Screen pages simultaneously. Biometric authentication is available via Touch ID embedded in the side button, supporting secure access whether the device is folded or unfolded.
Expandable display enhances multitasking and camera functionalities on the iPhone
The rear camera array includes a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera along with a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide sensor. The main camera supports an optical-quality 2x telephoto zoom and features zero shutter lag. Photographers can preview selfies taken with the rear camera on the external display before capturing. Duo Preview allows subjects to see the framing while another user operates the camera. Video recording reaches 4K at 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision support, providing professional-quality footage.
Powering the foldable iPhone is Apple’s A20 Pro chip and a dual-battery configuration. To manage heat during intensive use, a custom vapor chamber is incorporated inside. Apple estimates up to 31 hours of video playback using the inner display, increasing to 44 hours with the outer screen. The device supports fast wired and wireless charging, as well as Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity options.
Pricing details and availability in over 70 markets set for October
Consumers can purchase the iPhone Duo with storage options of 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB, finished in either star white or night sky colors. The starting price in the United States is $1,999, while in the UAE, it costs AED 8,499. Initial sales will commence on October 23, following preorders opening a week earlier, with availability expanding to an additional 28 countries and regions on October 30. Notably, the device now exclusively supports eSIM worldwide, eliminating physical SIM slots.
With the introduction of the iPhone Duo, Apple enters the foldable smartphone market with a unique combination of hardware and software solutions. Its design merges a compact outer screen with the largest display ever featured on an iPhone. The device also integrates Apple’s processors, cameras, connectivity technologies, and mobile OS into a foldable format. Customers will receive their first units approximately six weeks after the September reveal, marking the commercial debut of Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone in October.