CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple has launched the iPhone Duo, marking its debut in foldable smartphones, with U.S. pricing starting at $1,999. The company revealed the device on Sept. 9 at its Cupertino headquarters, with Apple CEO John Ternus showcasing the latest addition to the company’s hardware lineup. Preorders are scheduled to begin on Oct. 16 across more than 70 countries and regions, with the initial units expected to arrive at customers and stores on Oct. 23.
The iPhone Duo features a book-style form factor with two Super Retina XDR screens. When closed, a 5.4-inch display handles everyday tasks, while opening the device reveals a 7.6-inch inner screen suitable for video, apps, games, and multitasking. The device’s casing is crafted from Grade 5 titanium, and its hinge incorporates over 100 components. Additionally, it carries an IP68 certification for splash, water, and dust resistance.
Apple has customized its mobile software to optimize the larger foldable display. The iOS 27.1 preinstalled on the device includes features tailored for the new screen format, such as the ability to place two apps side by side and save preferred app pairings. When open, the phone can display two Home Screen pages simultaneously. Biometric authentication is available via Touch ID embedded in the side button, functioning in both configurations.
Foldable Screen Enhances Multitasking and Photography
The rear camera system comprises a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera and a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide camera. The main camera offers a 2x optical zoom with an optical-quality lens and supports zero shutter lag. Users can preview selfies taken with the rear camera on the external display before capturing them. Duo Preview also enables subjects to see the framing while another user controls the camera. The main camera records 4K video at up to 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision.
Powered by the A20 Pro chip and a dual-battery setup, the foldable iPhone benefits from a custom vapor chamber to manage heat during intensive use. Apple estimates up to 31 hours of video playback using the inner display, which increases to 44 hours when using the outer screen. The device supports fast wired and wireless charging, along with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity options.
Pricing and Launch Schedule Cover Over 70 Markets
The iPhone Duo will be available with storage options of 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB, with color choices including star white and night sky finishes. The starting price is $1,999 in the United States and AED 8,499 in the UAE. The initial release begins on Oct. 23, following preorders that start one week earlier. On Oct. 30, Apple plans to extend sales to an additional 28 countries and regions. The device also features an eSIM-only design worldwide.
By introducing the iPhone Duo, Apple enters the established foldable smartphone market with a hardware and software approach unique to its brand. Its design combines a compact external screen with the largest display ever on an iPhone. The device integrates Apple’s processors, cameras, connectivity features, and mobile OS into a foldable format. Customers will receive the first units roughly six weeks after the September announcement, marking the commercial debut of Apple’s first foldable iPhone with its October launch.