Apple has entered the foldable smartphone market with the launch of its new iPhone Duo, a device priced between $1,999 and $3,199. The company's most expensive smartphone to date features a significant departure from its traditional design, including a 5.4-inch outer display and a 7.6-inch inner screen.
Despite the technological leap, the iPhone Duo has drawn criticism from some consumers and tech observers on social media platforms like X. Users have described the design as "ugly," "awkward," and "hideous," with some questioning its practicality and calling it "the most useless phone ever made."
The device shares a form factor with Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series, presenting a wider-than-tall screen when unfolded. Both the inner and outer displays maintain a 1 by 1.4 aspect ratio, intended to prevent app distortion when switching between screen modes. The iPhone Duo is designed to support multitasking with the A20 Pro chipset, allowing different applications to run simultaneously on each half of the screen.
Critics have pointed out that Apple's entry into the foldable market comes years after competitors such as Samsung and Google, suggesting a lack of innovation. Comments on social media express confusion about the device's purpose and pricing, with some deeming it a "niche product at a niche price" and "the dumbest thing ever."
Even the product's name, "iPhone Duo," has been met with skepticism, with some users finding it "silly" and questioning the decision-making process behind it.
Launched at Apple's 'surprise and shine' event in Cupertino, California, the iPhone Duo is constructed from titanium and available in night sky and star white colors. Apple claims its new hinge design enhances durability and minimizes screen creasing. However, the inclusion of Touch ID instead of the more common Face ID has also been noted as a potential drawback for some users.
New CEO John Ternus described the iPhone Duo as "the most transformational change to iPhone since the original." The device's screen will support Apple Pencil, a feature previously exclusive to iPads. The rear camera is a 48-megapixel model, similar to that found on the iPhone 18 Pro.
Alongside the iPhone Duo, Apple also introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, as well as new Apple Watches and AirPods.