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Apple has officially entered the foldable smartphone market with the debut of its first foldable device, the iPhone Duo, unveiled Wednesday at the company’s Cupertino, California, headquarters. The announcement, made by Apple’s new CEO John Ternus, marks the biggest redesign of the iPhone since its 2007 debut and puts Apple in direct competition with Samsung, which has dominated the foldable phone space for several years.
The iPhone Duo opens like a book to reveal a wide, tablet-sized inner display measuring approximately 7.8 inches, while the outer screen is about 5.5 inches, according to multiple reports. Apple’s approach uses a wider, passport-like design, differing from Samsung’s taller Galaxy Z Fold series and aiming to create an experience closer to an iPad mini when unfolded. The device features a titanium-aluminum frame for strength and lightness and is expected to be the thinnest iPhone ever produced when opened, measuring just about 4.5mm thick.
A key focus for Apple was minimizing the crease in the foldable display, a common complaint among users of other brands. Apple invested heavily in new display materials and hinge technology, resulting in a nearly invisible fold crease under 0.15mm deep.
The iPhone Duo is powered by Apple’s latest A20 chip, which uses a 2-nanometer manufacturing process for improved speed and efficiency, and comes equipped with dual 48-megapixel rear cameras. Notably, Apple chose a side-mounted Touch ID fingerprint sensor rather than Face ID, a change driven by the foldable’s geometry, which makes facial recognition less reliable in different usage modes.
Apple’s entry comes after years of folding phone rumors and reported internal development dating back to 2017. CEO John Ternus said during the launch that Apple’s late arrival was intentional, emphasizing the company’s commitment to solving challenges like screen durability and user experience before releasing a product.
Pricing for the iPhone Duo is expected to start at over $2,000, making it the most expensive iPhone to date.
The iPhone Duo will compete directly with Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8, which launched in August and features a different form factor and a triple-lens camera system. Apple is betting that its seamless hardware-software integration, a nearly crease-free display, and iOS multitasking features will help it stand out.
Apple’s September keynote also included the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, but the standard iPhone 18 and more affordable models are reportedly delayed until spring 2027.