Apple announced the launch of its new foldable phone, the Duo, marking a significant shift in its flagship product line. The Duo resembles a passport in size and shape, featuring rounded edges and opening into a wide horizontal screen that can also be viewed vertically. When folded, the phone displays a smaller single screen on the front. Apple stated that the Duo is its thinnest phone when unfolded.
The pricing for the Duo starts at $2,999, with the U.S. pricing beginning at $1,999, equivalent to approximately $2,760 Canadian dollars at the current exchange rate. Pre-orders for the device will commence on October 17, and it will be available for purchase on October 23.
Describing the Duo as a revolutionary change, Apple’s new CEO, John Ternus, emphasized the device’s innovative design and seamless user experience. Ternus highlighted the shortcomings of existing foldable phones, stating that the Duo is engineered to provide an iPad-like experience in a compact, pocket-sized form through advanced features like a custom hinge, dual displays, and a titanium body.
The launch event, the first under Ternus’s leadership, represents a significant overhaul of Apple’s flagship product line since the removal of the physical home button from the iPhone X in 2017. Ternus succeeded former CEO Tim Cook and showcased the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models alongside the Duo, emphasizing privacy and the integration of advanced AI features.
Apple also introduced a new feature called “Apple Reference Image” to ensure image authenticity taken with the iPhone 18 Pro cameras. Additionally, the company unveiled upgraded AirPods with noise cancellation and new Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 models, focusing on health-centric improvements.
As Apple ventures into the foldable phone market with the Duo priced at around $3,000, Ternus faces the challenge of convincing consumers of the device’s value proposition. The company’s latest product lineup aims to cater to evolving consumer needs while maintaining its reputation for innovation and luxury.