Apple unveiled its first foldable device, the iPhone Duo, at the "Surprise and Shine" event in Cupertino. This is also Apple's first major new product since new CEO John Ternus took office.
When unfolded, this phone features a 7.6-inch Retina display, with a 5.4-inch outer screen. Apple says the new device’s design is inspired by the versatile experience of the iPad and demonstrates its usage in vertical unfold mode.
The folding pattern is more widescreen.
Apple did not follow the common "vertical strip" design seen in early foldable phones, but instead adopted a wider aspect ratio. This results in a screen proportion closer to standard content formats when unfolded for video viewing.
The system has been re-optimized for foldable screens.
iOS 27 has also been optimized for new devices. Controls such as Wi-Fi have been moved to the side, and apps on the home screen can now be docked vertically. Users can also use split-screen mode or pin a video to the upper half of the screen while working with other apps in the lower half.
Touch ID returns
This device does not feature Face ID and retains only Touch ID. Apple also supports unlocking with an Apple Watch. Users can also partially fold the phone and use it on a desk.
Counterpoint estimates that foldable smartphones currently account for less than 2% of overall smartphone shipments. However, with Apple's entry, market attention is expected to rise significantly, and analysts believe the iPhone Duo could reach a 25% share by the end of this year.