Apple releases iPhone Duo, its first foldable smartphone
Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 13:15 · Archive
Apple has released the iPhone Duo, its first foldable handset, priced at $1,999.
Apple has entered the foldable phone market with the iPhone Duo, priced at $1,999. The device features a glossy outer 5.4-inch OLED display with 120Hz ProMotion support and peak brightness of 3,000 nits, alongside a larger 7.6-inch inner panel with matching aspect ratio.
Reviewers describe the Duo as a well-realised foldable that avoids missteps of earlier devices in the category. Wired notes that Apple's first foldable feels 'fully mature' compared to early generations of Android foldables, having waited seven years since Samsung's first Galaxy Fold to enter the market. The engineering is praised as exquisite, with a virtually crease-free screen and compelling design.
However, the device has drawbacks. Engadget and TechRadar both note that the Duo is significantly heavier than competitors. TechRadar describes it as heavier, thinner, and cheaper than Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, though Samsung's device 'remains compelling'. Engadget observes that this weight trade-off was necessary for durability and consistent handoff between the two displays.
App support remains incomplete at launch. Wired reports that several apps display poorly on the sprawling inner screen, with thick black bars flanking phone-sized apps in the centre. However, Instagram, Threads, Slack and Google have already updated to add full support, with navigation icons repositioned to the right rail. Developers need to target iOS 27.1 SDK for full compatibility, which will take time.
Wired notes that app developers have embraced the Duo more swiftly than they have Android foldables. Slack, for example, offers a two-pane view on the Duo but never did on Android foldables. For Apple users unwilling to switch to Android, reviewers across outlets agree the Duo represents the foldable phone they have been waiting for, despite its premium price and weight.
How it is being reported
- Apple iPhone Duo review: A first-class foldableEven though it's heavy and expensive, Apple's first foldable handset is a treat for iPhone users unwilling to switch to Android.Engadget · 21 Oct, 13:00
- Apple iPhone Duo review: this is the foldable Apple fans have been waiting forAfter living with the iPhone Duo for a week, I'm convinced this is the foldable phone Apple fans have always wanted.TechRadar · 21 Oct, 13:00
- Apple iPhone Duo Review: Is It Worth It?Apple made an astonishingly good first foldable. Now iOS and third-party apps need time to catch up.Wired · 21 Oct, 13:00
In this story: Apple · Samsung · iPhone Duo · Galaxy Z Fold 8 · Instagram · Slack
This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem
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