Apple introduced a new foldable phone named Duo on Wednesday, marking a significant shift in its flagship product lineup. The Duo, shaped like a passport with rounded edges, unfolds into a wide horizontal screen that can also be used vertically. It boasts a smaller single screen when folded and is touted as Apple’s thinnest phone when opened.
Priced at $2,999 globally, the Duo starts at $1,999 in the U.S., approximately $2,760 in Canadian dollars. Apple has not provided a clear explanation for the price discrepancy, prompting inquiries for further details from CBC News. Pre-orders for the Duo will commence on October 17, with availability slated for October 23.
John Ternus, the new Apple CEO, described the iPhone Duo as a groundbreaking innovation, emphasizing its fresh design and user-friendly features. Ternus highlighted the shortcomings of existing foldable devices, aiming to offer an enhanced experience with the Duo through a custom hinge, dual displays with consistent aspect ratios, and a titanium body.
The unveiling event marked a significant overhaul of Apple’s product range, comparable to the removal of the physical home button on the iPhone X in 2017. Ternus, previously Apple’s hardware chief, succeeded Tim Cook as CEO, emphasizing the company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
In addition to the Duo, Apple showcased the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models, starting at $1,749 and $1,899, respectively, without foldable capabilities. The company also introduced features addressing concerns over AI-generated images, including the “Apple Reference Image” standard for image authenticity verification on the new iPhone 18 Pro cameras.
Furthermore, Apple presented the A20 Pro chip for the iPhone 18 Pro, enhancing AI capabilities, and unveiled new AirPods starting at $179 with noise cancellation. The upgraded AirPods feature wireless charging and volume control on the stem. Additionally, Apple introduced the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4, focusing on significant health-related enhancements.
Ternus, entrusted with persuading customers to invest in a $3,000 foldable device, faces the challenge of justifying the new high price point in a market dominated by Apple’s reputation for luxury products. The company’s latest offerings underscore its dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction.