CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple has launched the iPhone Duo, marking its entry into the foldable smartphone market with its inaugural model, priced in the U.S. at $1,999. The device was officially introduced on Sept. 9 at Apple’s Cupertino headquarters. During the event, Apple CEO John Ternus showcased the latest addition to the company’s hardware lineup. Preorders will begin on Oct. 16 across more than 70 countries and regions, with the first units scheduled for delivery and store availability on Oct. 23.
The iPhone Duo features a book-style foldable design with two Super Retina XDR displays. When closed, a 5.4-inch screen handles standard phone functions. Opening the device reveals a 7.6-inch inner display suitable for video playback, apps, gaming, and multitasking. Apple crafted the enclosure from Grade 5 titanium and engineered the hinge with over 100 components. The device also holds an IP68 rating for splash, water, and dust resistance.
The company has tailored its mobile software to optimize the expanded folding display. The iPhone Duo ships with iOS 27.1, which incorporates features designed specifically for the new screen format. Users can run two apps side by side and save app pairings for quick access. When open, the phone can display two Home Screen pages simultaneously. Touch ID, embedded in the side button, provides biometric authentication in both configurations.
Foldable Screen Enhances Multitasking and Camera Functionality
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 option and supports zero shutter lag. Before taking a photo, users can preview selfies from the rear camera on the external display. Duo Preview allows subjects to see the frame while another person controls the camera. The main camera captures 4K video at up to 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision.
Powering the foldable iPhone is Apple’s A20 Pro processor coupled with a dual-battery system. A custom vapor chamber helps regulate internal heat during intensive tasks. Apple estimates up to 31 hours of video playback when using the inner display, increasing to 44 hours with the outer screen. The device supports fast wired and wireless charging, along with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity.
Pricing and Launch in Over 70 Markets Scheduled for October
The iPhone Duo will be available with storage options of 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB, with colors including star white and night sky. The starting price in the United States is $1,999, while in the UAE it is AED 8,499. Preorders will open one week before availability, which begins on Oct. 23. The sales will expand to an additional 28 countries and regions on Oct. 30. Notably, Apple has transitioned to an eSIM-only configuration worldwide for this model.
With its unique hardware and software integration, the iPhone Duo introduces Apple into the established foldable smartphone segment. Its design combines a compact external display with the largest foldable screen Apple has ever incorporated into an iPhone. The device integrates Apple’s processors, cameras, connectivity features, and iOS into its foldable format. Customers will receive their first units approximately six weeks after the September announcement. The October release signifies Apple’s commercial debut in the foldable smartphone market.