CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple has announced the iPhone Duo, marking its debut in the foldable smartphone market with a device priced from U.S. dollars at $1,999. The company revealed the new model on Sept. 9 at its Cupertino headquarters. During the event, Apple CEO John Ternus introduced the device as part of the latest hardware lineup. Customers can place preorders starting Oct. 16 in over 70 countries and regions, with the first units arriving at stores and customers on Oct. 23.
The iPhone Duo features a book-style design comprising two Super Retina XDR displays. When the device is closed, a 5.4-inch screen handles typical phone functions. Opening it reveals a 7.6-inch interior display suitable for watching videos, using apps, gaming, and multitasking. The enclosure is crafted from Grade 5 titanium, and the hinge incorporates more than 100 components. The device also has an IP68 rating for splash, water, and dust resistance.
Apple has tailored its mobile operating system to maximize the capabilities of the larger folding screen. The iPhone Duo will ship with iOS 27.1, which introduces features specifically designed for the new format. Users can run two apps side by side, save preferred app combinations, and view two Home Screen pages simultaneously on the open device. Additionally, Touch ID is integrated into the side button, providing biometric authentication whether the device is open or closed.
Foldable Screen Enhances Multitasking and Camera Capabilities
The rear camera setup includes a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera and a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide camera. The main camera offers an optical-quality 2x telephoto lens and supports zero shutter lag. Users can preview selfies taken with the rear camera on the external display before capturing. Duo Preview also allows subjects to see the framing while another person controls the camera. The main camera is capable of recording 4K video at up to 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision.
Powered by the A20 Pro chip and a dual-battery system, Apple’s foldable iPhone also features a custom vapor chamber to help regulate internal temperature during intensive tasks. Apple estimates up to 31 hours of video playback when using the inner display, which extends to 44 hours with the outer screen. The device supports fast wired and wireless charging and includes Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity.
Pricing and Availability Expand to Over 70 Markets in October
The iPhone Duo will be available with storage options of 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. Customers can select from star white and night sky finishes. The starting price in the United States is $1,999, while in the UAE, it is AED 8,499. Sales commence on Oct. 23 following a week of preorders opening on Oct. 16. On Oct. 30, Apple will expand sales to an additional 28 countries and regions. The device will be sold exclusively with an eSIM in all markets worldwide.
With the iPhone Duo, Apple enters the foldable smartphone market equipped with its own hardware and software approach. Its design combines a small external screen with the largest display Apple has ever integrated into an iPhone. The handset brings together Apple’s processors, cameras, connectivity features, and mobile OS into a foldable form factor. Customers can expect to receive their first devices roughly six weeks after the September announcement. The October release signifies the commercial debut of Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone.