Apple Unveils $1,999 Folding iPhone Duo in Major Flagship Redesign -

Apple has unveiled the iPhone Duo, a $1,999 foldable smartphone that marks the company’s biggest redesign of its flagship device since the iPhone X. With a focus on a slim design, productivity and privacy, Apple is entering a market that has been dominated by Samsung and Chinese manufacturers for several years.

Designed to resemble a passport, the Duo opens horizontally to reveal a 7.6-inch display that can also be used vertically. A smaller screen is available on the front when the phone is folded. Apple said the device is its thinnest iPhone when fully opened and features a custom hinge and titanium body.

New CEO John Ternus presented the Duo as a more practical alternative to existing foldable phones, arguing that many rival devices are awkward for everyday tasks such as scrolling and watching videos. Apple is positioning the larger display as a productivity tool, allowing users to run multiple applications and providing expanded views for services such as Zoom and Slack.

The iPhone Duo will be powered by Apple’s A20 Pro chip and include the company’s new C2 modem, reducing its reliance on Qualcomm for wireless connectivity. Apple said the battery can provide up to 24 hours of mixed dual-screen use and reach 50% charge in about 20 minutes. Analysts expect strong demand for the device and believe Apple’s entry could help bring foldable smartphones into the mainstream.

Privacy was another major focus of the launch. Ternus described the iPhone as a personal AI hub and emphasized that Apple Intelligence processes information on the device whenever possible. Apple also introduced an updated Siri and new tools aimed at identifying AI-generated or manipulated images.

The company additionally launched the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, with starting prices of $1,199 and $1,299 respectively. Apple also announced new AirPods starting at $129 with noise cancellation and introduced the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 with new health, fitness and heart-rate features. – ERMD

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