CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple has expanded its iPhone lineup with a new foldable model, the iPhone Duo. The company revealed the device on Sept. 9, with preorders opening on Oct. 16. U.S. prices start at $1,999, and in the UAE, the starting price is AED 8,499. The device will go on sale on Oct. 23 across more than 70 countries and regions. This launch marks Apple’s first book-style smartphone featuring separate outer and inner displays.
In early September, the iPhone Duo was announced, showcasing a 5.4-inch outer screen for everyday use in its closed state. When unfolded, it reveals a 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR display intended for larger applications and multitasking. Both screens support ProMotion and Always-On features, with outdoor brightness reaching 3,000 nits. The device’s enclosure is crafted from Grade 5 titanium, and its hinge comprises over 100 components. Additionally, it holds an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
Ahead of its release, the software experience is key to maximizing the foldable design. Apple developed iOS 27.1 to support both folded and unfolded modes. The Split View feature allows users to run two apps side by side on the internal display, while multitasking enables two windows from a single app to operate simultaneously. Saved app arrangements can be accessed later, and the expanded screen supports two Home Screen pages. Touch ID remains integrated into the side button for biometric authentication.
Enhanced Multitasking with the Larger Display
The camera setup includes a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera alongside a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide camera. The main sensor features an optical-quality 2x telephoto lens. Duo Preview allows users to see a live image on the outside display while another person takes a photo. The outer screen also functions as a viewfinder for selfies shot with the rear cameras. Video recording supports 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second with Dolby Vision support.
Powering the iPhone Duo is the A20 Pro chip, constructed using 2-nanometer technology. This processor includes a six-core CPU, a seven-core GPU, and dual 16-core Neural Engines. Inside, a vapor chamber manages thermal regulation within the foldable body. The device also features a battery on each side, with Apple estimating up to 31 hours of video playback on the inner display and up to 44 hours on the outer one.
October Launch Marks Entry into Foldable Smartphone Market
Storage options begin at 256GB and go up to 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. The iPhone Duo will be available in star white and night sky finishes. The initial retail release is scheduled for Oct. 23, following a preordering phase that starts one week earlier. On Oct. 30, the device will be available in an additional 28 countries and regions. The phone uses an eSIM-only setup globally and supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity.
With this launch, Apple enters the foldable smartphone market, currently populated by devices from several major manufacturers. Its design combines a traditional outer screen with a larger internal workspace for apps, photos, and videos. The hardware integrates Apple’s own chips, operating system, and camera features, while maintaining familiar iPhone functionalities like biometric authentication and its established software ecosystem. Customers can expect to receive their units approximately six weeks after the September announcement.