CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple has expanded its iPhone lineup with the introduction of a foldable model called the iPhone Duo. The tech giant unveiled the device on Sept. 9, with preorders scheduled to open on Oct. 16. In the U.S., prices start at $1,999, while the UAE’s starting price is AED 8,499. The device will be available for purchase beginning Oct. 23 across more than 70 countries and territories. This launch introduces Apple’s first book-style smartphone featuring distinct outer and inner displays.
The iPhone Duo features a 5.4-inch external screen suitable for everyday use when the device remains closed. When opened, it reveals a 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR display designed to support larger applications and multitasking. Both screens include ProMotion and Always-On support, with outdoor brightness reaching 3,000 nits. Crafted from Grade 5 titanium, the phone’s enclosure incorporates a hinge made of over 100 components. It also bears an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
Software is a key element in optimizing how the foldable iPhone leverages its additional display space. Apple developed iOS 27.1 to accommodate both open and closed modes. The Split View feature allows users to position two apps side by side on the inner display. Additionally, it’s possible to operate two windows from the same app and save preferred app arrangements for quick access later. The larger screen supports two Home Screen pages, with Touch ID integrated into the side button for convenience.
Expanded Display Enables Advanced Multitasking Capabilities on iPhone
The camera system includes a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera alongside a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide camera. The main sensor also features an optical-quality 2x telephoto zoom. Duo Preview allows users to see a live image on the external display while someone else takes a photo. The outer screen also functions as a viewfinder for selfies taken with the rear cameras. Video recording supports 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision support.
Powered by the A20 Pro chip, built with 2-nanometer process technology, the iPhone Duo includes a six-core CPU, a seven-core GPU, and a dual 16-core Neural Engine. A vapor chamber helps manage thermal performance within the foldable body. The device contains a battery on each side, and Apple estimates up to 31 hours of video playback on the inner display and 44 hours on the outer display.
October Launch Positions Apple in the Foldable Smartphone Market
Starting storage options include 256GB, with capacities extending to 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. The iPhone Duo will be sold in star white and night sky finishes. Its first retail appearance begins on Oct. 23, following a week of preorders. An additional 28 countries and regions will receive the device on Oct. 30. The phone operates with an eSIM-only design globally and supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity.
With this release, Apple enters the foldable smartphone arena, which already includes offerings from various major manufacturers. Its design pairs a standard outer screen with a larger interior workspace for apps, photos, and videos. Apple has integrated this hardware with its proprietary chips, operating system, and camera technology. The company also maintained familiar iPhone features, such as biometric authentication and its existing software ecosystem. Customers can expect to receive the first units roughly six weeks after the September announcement.