Apple's First Foldable iPhone Duo Launches in Israel Starting at $2,100

Apple has officially unveiled its first-ever foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series and new Apple Watch and AirPods models. In Israel, the iPhone Duo will be available starting at 8,199 shekels for the 256GB version, with prices escalating to 12,199 shekels for the 2TB model. This pricing positions the Duo significantly above the Pro models, with the base Duo costing approximately 52% more than the iPhone 18 Pro and 37% more than the Pro Max.

The iPhone Duo features a 5.4-inch external display and unfolds to reveal a larger 7.6-inch internal screen, designed to offer a new user experience. It is powered by the A20 Pro chip, shares the same titanium construction as the Pro models, and boasts dual batteries for extended video playback. Apple is marketing the Duo as a premium, separate product category rather than an addition to the Pro line, reflected in its US pricing starting at $1,999.

While the US price before taxes is around $6,040 (approximately 6,040 shekels), the Israeli retail price, including 18% VAT, starts at 8,199 shekels, a difference of about 1,000 shekels. This accounts for the varying tax structures between the two markets.

Pre-orders for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in Israel begin on September 12, with devices shipping from September 18. However, the iPhone Duo's pre-order period starts later, on October 16, with the official launch in Israel on October 23. To mitigate the high cost, Phon will offer early bird incentives including a lifetime warranty, free shipping, and a backup battery, along with trade-in options of up to 3,000 shekels.

Despite price increases from Apple abroad, the strong shekel has helped Israeli importers maintain relatively moderate price hikes compared to last year. The high starting price for the Duo indicates Apple's strategy to target early adopters willing to pay a premium for innovative form factors, rather than aiming for mass-market appeal at this stage.