Apple’s First Foldable iPhone Goes on Sale as Customers Queue Worldwide

Apple has officially launched its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, at Apple Store locations worldwide, with customers gathering at stores to experience the new device on its first day of retail availability.

The device became available on Friday, October 23, following its unveiling in September. According to Apple’s official announcement, customers visited stores in several locations, including Austin, New York City, London, Shanghai and Mumbai, where they could test the phone and receive assistance from Apple staff.

The launch marks Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market, a category that allows users to switch between a conventional phone-sized screen and a larger display by unfolding the device.

A new design for the iPhone

The iPhone Duo features two displays designed for different uses. When folded, it has a 5.4-inch outer display, while opening the device reveals a 7.6-inch inner screen.

According to Apple, the larger display is designed for activities such as viewing content, gaming and multitasking. Its folding design also allows users to carry the device in a compact form when the larger screen is not needed.

The smartphone is powered by Apple’s A20 Pro chip and runs iOS 27, which has been adapted to support the device’s dual-display design.

Apple has also introduced Split View, a feature that allows users to open two applications side by side on the inner display. This could make activities such as reading documents while taking notes, comparing information or participating in video meetings more convenient.

Camera and battery features

The iPhone Duo comes with a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera and a 48-megapixel Fusion Ultra Wide camera. Apple says the folding design introduces additional camera options, including the ability to preview photographs on the outer screen while using the rear cameras.

The device also features a camera beneath the inner display for FaceTime calls.

Apple says the phone can provide up to 31 hours of video playback when using the inner display and up to 44 hours when using the outer display. Actual battery performance may vary depending on usage and other conditions.

The company has also highlighted the device’s titanium construction, specially designed hinge and water- and dust-resistance rating as part of its durability features.

What the launch means for Apple

The release introduces a new design category to Apple’s smartphone lineup. Rather than relying solely on the conventional rectangular smartphone format, the company is offering a device that can expand into a larger screen when opened.

The launch also gives customers another option for using a smartphone for work, entertainment and communication. However, the practical value of the design will depend on individual needs, including whether users regularly require a larger screen and whether the device’s features justify its cost.

Apple has not established in the announcement that every market will have the same purchasing options or availability. Customers in countries without direct Apple Store retail locations may need to check local authorised sellers and availability arrangements before purchasing.

For Nigerian consumers, local availability and pricing should therefore be confirmed through reliable local sellers before making purchasing decisions.

The iPhone Duo’s release represents a new chapter in Apple’s smartphone development. Its reception and longer-term performance will help determine how successfully the company’s first foldable device meets consumer expectations.