Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, is facing a mixed reception following its launch, with early reviewers praising its design and display while raising concerns about durability, weight, camera performance, and software compatibility.
Starting at $1,999 for the 256GB model, the device marks Apple’s entry into the foldable phone market, but some reviewers believe the first-generation product still has room for improvement.
The iPhone Duo features a 5.4-inch outer display that unfolds into a 7.6-inch inner screen. Its nano-texture finish is designed to reduce glare and make the larger display easier to use in bright conditions. The device also features a titanium frame and hinge, with Apple emphasizing durability as a key part of its design. According to Apple’s official product page, the phone also includes water and dust resistance.
However, independent durability tests have raised questions about how the inner display will hold up over time. In one test, YouTuber Tim Pan subjected the phone to more than 10,000 folding cycles, including additional testing in freezing conditions. The hinge continued to operate smoothly, but the crease running through the middle of the inner display became significantly more noticeable. Journalist Joanna Stern also tested a review unit through more than 32,000 partial folds, finding that the hinge remained functional, although measurements indicated a slight increase in stiffness. These experiments are not equivalent to long-term everyday use, but they offer an early look at how the device responds to repeated folding.
Reviewers have also pointed to several compromises in everyday use. The phone is relatively heavy, lacks Face ID, and does not include a dedicated telephoto camera. Its large inner display can also be frustrating when apps have not been optimized for the foldable layout, with some applications displaying awkwardly or failing to take full advantage of the additional screen space.
Despite these shortcomings, early reviews have not been entirely negative. Some reviewers have praised the hinge, the reduced glare from the matte display, and the ability to use multiple apps on a larger screen. Software support is also expected to improve as developers update their applications for the device. However, buyers considering the iPhone Duo will need to decide whether these advantages justify its premium price and first-generation limitations.
If this article helped you, please consider supporting our work. Every small contribution keeps Abijita.com independent and running.
