Apple iPhone Duo Launches at $1,999 With Touch ID and New Foldable Layout

Apple has finally entered the foldable smartphone market with the launch of the iPhone Duo, a device that arrives seven years after Samsung introduced the category with the Galaxy Fold. The new phone is priced at $1,999 and has been back-ordered for several weeks. Early assessments suggest that the extra time spent refining the hardware away from public view has resulted in a solid product, though buyers should be aware of specific software and design choices before making a purchase.

The most immediate challenge for early adopters is the software ecosystem. The device features a 5.4-inch outer screen and a 7.6-inch inner display, a form factor that Apple has not used before. Many third-party applications have not yet been optimized for these dimensions. While Apple's own redesigned apps display correctly, numerous other apps appear as a narrow strip in the center of the screen with thick black bars on the sides. Slack, Instagram, DoorDash, and WhatsApp have received updates for iOS 27.1, but some of these still show broken interface elements. Apple has also moved navigation elements to the right rail instead of the bottom center, a change that may allow developers to catch up by the time back-ordered units ship.

A significant design departure is the return of Touch ID, which replaces Face ID on this flagship model. The fingerprint sensor is located on the right side of the device. Apple attributes this choice to the thinness of the phone, marking the first time a flagship iPhone has used this technology since the iPhone SE, iPads, and MacBooks retained it. Some users may miss the speed of facial recognition, while others may welcome the change. The Dynamic Island feature remains but has been relocated to the top-right edge around the outer selfie camera, appearing in the same corner on the inner display during live activities.

Users will need to pay attention to accessories due to the unique shape of the phone. While the device supports MagSafe, it tips to one side when unfolded and attached to car docks or tripods because of uneven weight distribution. Third-party manufacturers may need to incorporate anti-rotation magnets to fix this issue. Magnetic wallets can be attached, but because the iPhone Duo is shorter than other iPhones, they extend past the bottom edge, and Apple currently offers no official fix for this gap.

Photography capabilities are a standout feature of the new device. Users can take selfies using the superior rear cameras while previewing the image on the outer screen. After launching the camera and flipping the phone, a control labeled Slide to show camera brings the full camera app to the outer display, including various modes and Photographic Styles. This feature disables the inner screen to prevent accidental touches. It is distinct from Duo Preview, which allows the subject to see the viewfinder, and Kids Cue, which displays Snoopy animations on the outer screen to attract a child's attention.

Multitasking has been adjusted for the wider inner display. Users can drag an app from the bottom to either side of the screen to run two applications side by side. Tapping the middle bar once causes it to glow white and locks the two apps as a pair, which can then be accessed from the Recent apps menu. However, this pair cannot be saved as a single icon on the home screen.

Care is required for the inner display, which features a matte nano-texture finish that Apple describes as an integral component. The company warns users not to attempt to remove this finish, as doing so could void the warranty. Apple does not address third-party screen protectors, which might impact display performance. If the finish is damaged, it can be replaced at an Apple Store or authorized provider for $19, or $49 if out of warranty. A cracked inner display costs $999 to replace without AppleCare+.

Several conveniences are still on the way via software updates. The keyboard can currently be split to make typing easier on the wide screen. A later update this year will add Reachability, which shifts an app to the left or right rather than pulling it down. Another update will add support for the USB-C Apple Pencil, allowing for a paper-like writing experience on the textured screen. Notably, there is no built-in place to store the stylus on the phone.