CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple has expanded its iPhone lineup by introducing a foldable model known as the iPhone Duo. The company revealed this device on Sept. 9, with preorders scheduled to open on Oct. 16. U.S. pricing starts at $1,999, while in the UAE, the base price is AED 8,499. The product will be available for purchase starting Oct. 23 in over 70 countries and regions worldwide. This launch marks Apple’s first book-style smartphone featuring separate outer and inner displays.
The new iPhone Duo sports a 5.4-inch external screen for routine use when the device remains folded. When unfolded, it reveals a 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR display, optimized for larger applications and multitasking capabilities. Both screens support ProMotion and Always-On features, with outdoor brightness up to 3,000 nits. The device’s enclosure is crafted from Grade 5 titanium, and the hinge comprises over 100 components for durability. Additionally, the phone has an IP68 rating, ensuring protection against water and dust ingress.
The software is vital in maximizing the utility of the foldable iPhone’s expanded screen space. Apple developed iOS 27.1 to support both open and closed modes seamlessly. The Split View feature allows users to run two applications side-by-side on the internal display. Users can also operate two windows from a single app simultaneously and save specific app arrangements for quick access later. The larger screen enables two Home Screen pages, while Touch ID remains embedded in the side button for biometric authentication.
Enhanced multitasking options with the larger display
The camera system incorporates a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera alongside a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide camera. The main sensor also features an optical-quality 2x telephoto option. During photography, Duo Preview can display a live image on the outer screen while another person captures the shot. The outer display also functions as a viewfinder for selfies taken with the rear cameras. Video recording capabilities include 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision support.
Powered by the A20 Pro chip, built using 2-nanometer technology, the iPhone Duo delivers high performance. The processor features a six-core CPU, a seven-core GPU, and dual 16-core Neural Engines. A vapor chamber assists in thermal management within the foldable body. The device contains batteries on each side, with Apple claiming up to 31 hours of video playback on the inner display and as much as 44 hours on the outer screen.
October launch positions Apple in the foldable smartphone sector
Starting at 256GB of storage, the iPhone Duo is also available with 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB options. The device will be offered in star white and night sky finishes. The initial retail release begins on Oct. 23 following a week-long pre-order phase. An additional 28 countries and regions are scheduled to receive the device on Oct. 30. Designed exclusively with eSIM technology worldwide, the handset supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity standards.
By launching the iPhone Duo, Apple enters a foldable smartphone market already populated by several major manufacturers. Its unique design combines a traditional outer screen with a larger internal workspace for apps, photos, and videos. Apple integrates this hardware with its own processors, operating system, and camera systems, while maintaining core iPhone features such as biometric authentication and its existing software ecosystem. Customers can expect to receive the first units approximately six weeks after the September announcement.