Apple's first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, will go on sale October 23, with pre-orders opening October 16. The device, unveiled at Apple's September event in Cupertino, starts at £1,999 and can exceed £3,100 with more storage.
A new design for Apple's smartphone range
The iPhone Duo features a radically different design, resembling a passport rather than a traditional smartphone. On the front is a standard screen that is shorter and wider than Apple's current devices. When opened, a 7.6-inch, iPad-style display is revealed, transforming the compact handset into a larger screen for watching movies, browsing websites, gaming, and multitasking.
While Android rivals such as Samsung, Google, Motorola, and Honor have offered foldable phones for years, this marks Apple's entry into the bendable smartphone market. Samsung's first foldable device arrived in 2019.
Key features and durability improvements
The Duo's main screen has a matte finish that reduces reflections and makes the central crease almost invisible. Apple has also focused on durability, incorporating a tough new hinge, aerospace-grade aluminium, and support ribs to make the device stronger and more rigid.
The device supports the Apple Pencil, allowing users to scribble notes, sketch, and doodle on the inner display. Software has been overhauled, with menus and apps adapting depending on which screen is in use. Apps can move seamlessly between the two displays, so users can start watching a Netflix movie on the cover screen and continue on the larger panel after unfolding.
Pricing and availability
Other features include a dual-lens camera, Touch ID fingerprint scanner, Apple's A20 Pro chip, long battery life, fast charging, and MagSafe support for wireless charging and accessories such as wallets and battery packs.
“When we designed iPhone Duo, we wanted to create the most transformational change to iPhone since the original,” Apple CEO John Ternus said. “With an entirely new design and intuitive experiences, it shows what’s possible when hardware and software are engineered together and redefines what it means to use a foldable phone.”
