Apple Unveils First Foldable iPhone Duo Alongside New iPhone 18 Lineup

Apple held its major fall product event on Wednesday, September 9, introducing its new iPhone 18 Pro series and, for the first time, a foldable smartphone named the iPhone Duo. This marks the first major flagship product launch under new CEO John Ternus, who succeeded Tim Cook on September 1, 2026. Cook has moved to the role of chairman of the board.

The iPhone Duo features a 5.4-inch external display and a 7.6-inch foldable internal screen, unfolding like a passport. Apple stated the inner screen offers 50% more area than the iPhone 18 Pro Max and 80% more than the iPhone 18 Pro. In its unfolded state, the device forms a continuous frame with a flat screen, utilizing a titanium body with a mirror-polished finish. It is the thinnest iPhone ever when unfolded, with some components relocated to the rear camera module. The phone will be available in Star White and Night Sky colors.

Apple has significantly adapted its iOS interface for the foldable form factor. Screen proportions are maintained when switching between the external and internal displays, and apps automatically expand to utilize the larger screen. The system also adjusts the interface based on how the user holds and folds the device, with iOS detecting the opening angle via sensors to optimize the display. Unlike other iPhones, the Duo does not use Face ID; instead, it features Touch ID integrated into the side button and can be unlocked with an Apple Watch. The under-display FaceTime camera eliminates the need for a notch.

Later this year, Apple will introduce Apple Pencil support for both screens of the iPhone Duo, a first for the iPhone line. The screen incorporates a Nano Texture coating to reduce glare and uses multiple layers with a special compound that allows for slight movement during folding to minimize long-term deformation. Pricing for the iPhone Duo starts at $1999 for the 256GB base model, with options up to 2TB. Pre-orders begin October 16, with sales commencing October 23. Notably, the iPhone Duo and the entire new lineup may launch in Israel simultaneously with the U.S. this year, a departure from previous delayed releases in the country.

The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max were also showcased, both powered by the new A20 Pro chip and available in four colors: deep black, silver, glacier, and burgundy. Apple claims these models offer the longest battery life of any iPhone. The main camera boasts 48 megapixels and a variable aperture for the first time. Prices start at $1199 for the iPhone 18 Pro and $1299 for the iPhone 18 Pro Max (256GB). Additionally, Apple announced the AirPods 5 with enhanced noise cancellation starting at $129, and the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 with updated health sensors.