CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple has revealed the iPhone Duo, marking its debut in the foldable smartphone segment, with U.S. pricing starting at $1,999. The company unveiled the device on Sept. 9 at its Cupertino headquarters. Apple CEO John Ternus introduced the new model as part of the latest hardware lineup. Preorders will begin on Oct. 16 across more than 70 countries and regions. The initial units are scheduled to arrive at customers and stores on Oct. 23.
Designed with a book-style form factor, the iPhone Duo features two Super Retina XDR displays. When the device remains closed, a 5.4-inch screen handles standard phone functions. Once opened, it reveals a 7.6-inch inner display optimized for video playback, applications, gaming, and multitasking. The device’s enclosure is crafted from Grade 5 titanium, and its hinge comprises over 100 components. It also boasts an IP68 certification for splash, water, and dust resistance.
Apple has customized its mobile operating system to optimize the use of the larger foldable display. The iPhone Duo will come preloaded with iOS 27.1, which introduces features tailored to the new screen format. Users can run two apps side by side and save preferred app pairings. The unfolded device can display two Home Screen pages simultaneously. Touch ID is embedded in the side button, providing biometric authentication in both open and closed states.
Foldable Screen Boosts Multitasking and Camera Capabilities
The rear camera array includes a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera alongside a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide camera. The main camera offers an optical-quality 2x telephoto zoom and supports zero shutter lag. Users can preview selfies taken with the rear camera on the external display before capturing the shot. Duo Preview also allows subjects to see the frame while another person manages the camera. Video recording capabilities include 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision.
The foldable iPhone is powered by Apple’s A20 Pro processor and features a dual-battery design. A custom vapor chamber manages heat during intensive tasks. Apple estimates up to 31 hours of video playback when using the inner display and up to 44 hours with the outer screen. The device supports rapid wired and wireless charging, along with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity.
Pricing and Global Launch Plans Cover Over 70 Markets
Available options include 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB storage variants, with color choices of 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 will commence on Oct. 23, following a week of preorders opening on Oct. 16. On Oct. 30, Apple will expand the availability to an additional 28 countries and regions. The device also features an eSIM-only design worldwide.
With its unique hardware and software integration, the iPhone Duo positions Apple within the established foldable smartphone market. Its design combines a compact external display with the largest screen ever included on an iPhone. The device unites Apple’s processors, cameras, connectivity features, and mobile operating system into a foldable format. Customers will receive their first units roughly six weeks after the September announcement, marking Apple’s official entry into the foldable smartphone arena with the October launch.