CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple has revealed the iPhone Duo, marking the company’s debut in foldable smartphone technology with its first model, priced in U.S. at $1,999. Unveiled on Sept. 9 at Apple’s headquarters in Cupertino, the device was introduced by CEO John Ternus as part of the latest lineup of hardware. Preorders are scheduled to begin on Oct. 16 across more than 70 countries and regions, with the first units expected to reach customers and stores on Oct. 23.
Designed with a book-like form factor, the iPhone Duo features two Super Retina XDR displays. When closed, a 5.4-inch screen handles regular phone functions. Opening the device reveals a 7.6-inch main display suitable for videos, apps, gaming, and multitasking. The device’s casing is crafted from Grade 5 titanium, with a hinge assembled from over 100 components. It also boasts an IP68 certification for splash, water, and dust resistance.
Apple has customized its mobile software to optimize use of the larger foldable screen. The iOS 27.1 software bundled with the device incorporates features tailored for this new format. Users can run two apps side by side or save preferred app pairings. The open phone can display two Home Screen pages simultaneously, and Touch ID, located on the side button, allows biometric authentication in either mode.
Foldable Screen Enhances Multitasking and Camera Capabilities
The rear camera system includes a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera and a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide camera. The main camera offers an optical-quality 2x telephoto zoom and supports zero shutter lag. Selfies taken with the rear camera can be previewed on the external display before capturing. Duo Preview allows subjects to see the framing while another person controls the camera. The main camera records 4K videos at up to 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision.
Powering the foldable iPhone is Apple’s A20 Pro processor and a dual-battery setup. A custom vapor chamber aids in heat regulation during intensive tasks. The device delivers up to 31 hours of video playback on the inner display, increasing to 44 hours when using the outer screen. It supports fast wired and wireless charging, along with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity.
Pricing Details and Global Launch in October Cover Over 70 Markets
Available configurations include storage options of 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB, with color choices of star white and night sky. In the U.S., the starting price is $1,999, while in the UAE it is AED 8,499. Initial sales will begin on Oct. 23 following preorders starting a week earlier. On Oct. 30, Apple plans to expand sales to an additional 28 countries and regions. Notably, the device will feature an eSIM-only design worldwide.
With the introduction of the iPhone Duo, Apple enters the foldable smartphone segment with a device that combines innovative hardware with tailored software. Its design merges a compact external screen with the largest display Apple has ever placed on an iPhone. The model integrates Apple’s processors, cameras, connectivity features, and mobile operating system into a foldable form factor. Customers will receive their first units approximately six weeks after the initial September announcement. The October release represents the commercial debut of Apple’s first foldable iPhone.