CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA / RankWire.AI / – Apple is expanding its iPhone lineup with a new foldable model called the iPhone Duo. The device was unveiled on Sept. 9, with preorders starting on Oct. 16. U.S. pricing begins at $1,999, and in the UAE, it starts at AED 8,499. The sales rollout is scheduled for Oct. 23 across more than 70 countries and regions. This launch marks Apple’s first book-style smartphone featuring separate outer and inner displays.
The iPhone Duo features a 5.4-inch external screen, ideal for daily use when the device remains closed. When opened, the phone reveals a 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR display, tailored for larger apps and multitasking. Both screens support ProMotion and Always-On, with outdoor brightness reaching 3,000 nits. The device’s enclosure is crafted from Grade 5 titanium, and its hinge comprises over 100 components. It is also rated IP68 for dust and water resistance.
A key aspect of the foldable design is the software integration, with Apple developing iOS 27.1 to optimize usage in both open and closed modes. The Split View feature allows two apps to run side-by-side on the internal display. Users can also operate two windows of the same app and save specific app arrangements for later. The larger screen supports two Home Screen pages, and Touch ID remains embedded in the side button.
Expanded display unlocks new multitasking capabilities for iPhone users
The camera array includes a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera and a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide sensor. The main camera also provides an optical-quality 2x telephoto zoom. Duo Preview enables users to see a live image on the outer screen while someone else captures the shot. Additionally, the exterior display functions as a viewfinder for selfies taken with the rear cameras. Video recording can reach 4K at 120 frames per second and supports Dolby Vision.
Under the hood, Apple fitted the iPhone Duo with the A20 Pro chip, utilizing 2-nanometer process technology. The processor includes a six-core CPU, a seven-core GPU, and dual 16-core Neural Engines. A vapor chamber helps regulate temperature inside the foldable body. Powering the device are batteries on each side. Apple claims up to 31 hours of video playback on the inner display and up to 44 hours on the outer screen.
October release marks Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market
Storage options start at 256GB, with higher capacities available up to 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. The iPhone Duo will be sold in star white and night sky color schemes. The initial retail release occurs on Oct. 23, following a preordering phase that kicks off a week earlier. An additional 28 countries and regions will receive the device on Oct. 30. The phone adopts an eSIM-only design globally and supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity.
With this launch, Apple enters the foldable smartphone segment, a market already populated by devices from several prominent manufacturers. Its design combines a traditional outer screen with a larger internal workspace for apps, photos, and videos. The hardware is integrated with Apple’s own chips, operating system, and camera technology. The company has maintained familiar features like biometric authentication and its software ecosystem. Customers can expect to receive their units approximately six weeks after the September announcement.