Apple's First Foldable iPhone Duo Launches in Israel October 23
Translated & summarized from Al-Shams by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Apple's first foldable iPhone Duo launches in Israel on October 23.
- Pre-orders begin October 16, with prices starting at 8,199 shekels.
- The device features a 7.6-inch internal display and titanium construction.
- Apple aims to capture 25% of the growing foldable phone market.
- High price and long-term durability are key considerations for consumers.
Apple is entering the foldable phone market with its first foldable device, the iPhone Duo, which will be available for pre-order starting Friday, October 16, and will reach markets, including Israel, on October 23. The device's price in Israel starts at 8,199 shekels for the 256GB version, according to prices published by Belfon. This launch marks Apple's official entry into a market currently dominated by Samsung and Chinese manufacturers.
The iPhone Duo opens like a book, featuring a 5.4-inch external display for everyday use and a 7.6-inch internal display with an anti-reflective coating. It is powered by the A20 Pro chip, manufactured using 2nm technology, which Apple claims is up to 20% faster than the previous generation. The phone includes dual 48-megapixel rear cameras and a front camera hidden beneath the internal screen. Apple states the battery can provide up to 44 hours of video playback on the external screen.
The device's chassis is made of titanium and is water and dust resistant. Notable features include the return of a fingerprint sensor integrated into the side button, replacing facial recognition. The iPhone Duo also exclusively uses eSIM, with no physical SIM card slot, requiring users to confirm their carrier's support for the service before purchase.
Pricing for other storage options in Israel includes 512GB at 8,799 shekels, 1TB at 9,999 shekels, and 2TB at 12,199 shekels. In the United States, the starting price is $1,999. The base model's price in Israel is approximately 52% higher than the iPhone 18 Pro's price of 5,399 shekels, reflecting Apple's strategy to position the new device in its premium tier.
The iPhone Duo is available in white and night black. It is targeted towards users who consume media, read, and multitask. However, the high price remains a significant barrier, and the long-term durability of the hinge and foldable screen will only be determined after extended use. The launch occurs amidst rapid growth in the foldable phone market, with projections of 22.9 million units shipped this year, and Apple aims to capture a quarter of this market.
Read the original at Al-Shams