What happened
Apple has officially introduced its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, at a fall event, marking a major design shift for the iPhone lineup after years of supply chain rumors.
The device features a book-style inward folding design with a 5.4-inch external display and a 7.6-inch internal screen that houses Apple's first under-display front camera in a production model, eliminating any notch or hole for a full-screen experience.
The iPhone Duo is powered by the A20 Pro chip built on TSMC's 2nm process, includes 12GB of RAM, and uses a custom variable-torque hinge with over 100 parts to minimize the crease. It also drops Face ID in favor of side-mounted Touch ID and supports only eSIM globally, with no physical SIM slot.
Why it matters
This launch represents Apple's entry into the foldable market, a segment where competitors have already established a presence. The focus on reducing the crease and using under-display camera technology could set new standards for foldable displays.
The shift to eSIM-only and the use of a 2nm chip highlight Apple's push for internal space optimization and performance, which may influence future iPhone designs and industry trends.
The high starting price of 15,999 yuan positions the iPhone Duo as a premium device, potentially testing consumer willingness to pay for Apple's first foldable.
Key facts
The iPhone Duo has a 5.4-inch external screen and a 7.6-inch internal display with an under-display front camera.
It is powered by the A20 Pro chip (2nm) with 12GB RAM and a VC vapor chamber for heat dissipation.
The device supports only eSIM, with no physical SIM slot, and includes a dual 48MP camera system.
The battery supports 31 hours of video playback on the internal screen and charges to 50% in 20 minutes.
Prices start at 15,999 yuan for 256GB, with pre-orders on October 16 and sales on October 23.
What to watch next
Consumer reception will be key, especially regarding the foldable's durability and the effectiveness of the crease-reduction technology in real-world use.
The performance of the under-display camera and the eSIM-only approach may influence user adoption, particularly in markets where eSIM support is limited.
Future software updates for iOS 27 could expand foldable-specific features, potentially enhancing multitasking and productivity capabilities.
