Apple's $1,999 iPhone Duo wins analyst praise but raises market reach concerns
Apple unveiled the iPhone Duo, its first foldable phone, on September 9, drawing broad analyst praise for its design and features despite a $1,999 starting price, the highest for any iPhone. The device launches October 23. Analysts lauded the Duo's crease-free 7.6-inch display, titanium frame, IP68 water and dust resistance, and deep iOS 27 software integration, including optimized apps like Netflix. However, its cost exceeds Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 by $100, raising concerns about market reach. The foldable market is small but growing, with 25 million units sold in 2025. The Duo aims to attract iOS users seeking a foldable, competing directly with Samsung's established Galaxy Z Fold line.