iPhone Duo: What You Need to Know About Apple’s First Foldable

iPhone Duo: Design and Functionality

The iPhone Duo is a standout device in Apple’s product lineup that has divided public opinion. Although the smartphone is equipped with cameras on par with the iPhone 17 Pro, it lacks a telephoto lens, which came as a surprise to many. Furthermore, the device does not support Face ID, opting instead for Touch ID. This creates a degree of discomfort for users who have grown accustomed to facial recognition systems over many years.

Weight and the folding mechanism are important details when using the device. When working with MagSafe chargers, it was discovered that the smartphone's weight in the unfolded state balances the charger, so placing it vertically on a stand is not recommended. Additionally, due to the design, the back panel of the iPhone Duo is too short to accommodate a standard MagSafe wallet.

Screen and App Optimization

The iPhone Duo features two different screen sizes: a 5.4-inch outer display and a 7.6-inch inner display. Users have been particularly interested in how applications transition from one screen to the other. Apple’s own apps, such as Books, are perfectly optimised for the inner screen, making the page-turning process exceptional. However, some third-party applications, such as LinkedIn or Gmail, still require refinement.

Interestingly, the crease on the inner screen is practically invisible and does not shift to the touch, which indicates the high reliability of the device. For those who love multitasking, it is possible to run two applications side-by-side, which is a major advantage for active social media users.

Limitations and Comparison with Competitors

Many questions have arisen regarding Apple Pencil support for the iPhone Duo. At this stage, the smartphone only works with the Apple Pencil USB-C, as other models require a wireless connection for charging, which the Duo lacks. This means that owners of the Pencil Pro will not be able to use this device.

As for the battery, despite some critical reviews, testing has shown that the device consistently lasts throughout the day. In comparison, the iPhone 18 Pro Max still holds an advantage with its camera system, while compared to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, the iPhone Duo shows almost identical results in camera capabilities. The main difference between Apple’s device and the older Microsoft Surface Duo is that the iPhone Duo uses a single flexible screen rather than two separate panels.

For users interested in new technologies, this device is an interesting alternative. However, when purchasing, one should take into account both the lack of Face ID and the ongoing process of application optimization.