Apple Duo Launches: $1,999 Price Tag and New Touch ID Feature Define the Debut

Apple has finally released its inaugural folding smartphone, the iPhone Duo, setting a retail price of $1,999. The device hits the market today, marking a significant milestone for the company after a seven year wait following Samsung's initial entry into the foldable sector with the Galaxy Fold. Early reviews suggest that the extended period of development allowed for significant hardware refinements, resulting in a device that is widely regarded as a strong competitor in the new category.

However, the software experience presents immediate challenges for new owners. The phone features a 5.4 inch outer screen and a 7.6 inch inner display, a form factor that is entirely new to the Apple ecosystem. While Apple's native applications have been redesigned to fit this shape, many third party apps have not yet caught up. Users report that some applications appear as narrow vertical strips with thick black bars on either side. Major services like Slack, Instagram, DoorDash, and WhatsApp have received updates for iOS 27.1, but even these have shown broken interface elements in some cases. Apple has also shifted navigation controls to the right side of the screen rather than the traditional bottom center. Since the device is currently back ordered for several weeks, developers may have time to finalize their fixes before many customers receive their units.

A notable design change involves the return of Touch ID. The Duo does not feature Face ID, a departure from recent flagship models. Instead, the sensor is located on the right side of the device. Analysts believe the thinness of the foldable design drove this decision. While Touch ID remains standard on the iPhone SE, iPads, and MacBooks, its return to a flagship iPhone is a first. Some users may prefer the speed of facial recognition, while others will appreciate the familiar fingerprint method. The Dynamic Island remains, but it is now positioned at the top right edge near the outer selfie camera and appears in the same corner on the inner display during live activities.

Accessory compatibility requires some adjustment. The phone supports MagSafe, but when unfolded and placed in a car dock or tripod, it tends to tip to one side due to uneven weight distribution. Third party manufacturers may need to introduce anti rotation magnets to solve this, potentially forcing users to replace existing gear. Magnetic wallets can be attached, but because the Duo is shorter than other iPhones, they extend past the bottom edge. Apple has not provided an official solution for this specific issue.

Photography capabilities offer a distinct advantage. Users can take selfies using the higher quality rear cameras while viewing the preview on the outer screen. A control labeled Slide to show camera moves the full camera app to the outer display, including modes and Photographic Styles, while disabling the inner screen to prevent accidental touches. This feature is separate from Duo Preview, which allows the subject to see the viewfinder, and Kids Cue, which plays Snoopy animations on the outer screen to engage children.

Multitasking is handled through a drag and drop system. Users can move an app from the bottom to either side of the inner screen to run two applications side by side. Tapping the middle bar once causes it to glow white and locks the two apps as a pair. This pair is accessible from the Recent apps menu, though it cannot be saved as a single icon.

Care must be taken with the inner display. A case and an outer screen protector are recommended. However, Apple states that the matte nano texture finish on the inner screen is an integral component and warns users not to attempt to remove it. Doing so could void the warranty. Apple does not address third party screen protectors, which may affect display performance. A damaged finish can be replaced at an Apple Store or authorized provider for $19, or $49 out of warranty. A cracked inner display costs $999 without AppleCare+.

Several software conveniences are currently in development. The keyboard can already be split to facilitate typing on the wide inner display. A software update later this year will add Reachability, which shifts an app to the left or right instead of pulling it down. Another update will add support for the USB C Apple Pencil, limited to that specific model. This should allow for a paper like writing experience on the nano texture screen. The phone does not have a built in storage spot for the stylus.