Apple has revealed the iPhone Duo, its first foldable phone and the biggest design change to the iPhone since its 2007 debut, marking the first major product launch under new CEO John Ternus.
Key facts
- Apple unveiled the iPhone Duo, its first folding phone, at its annual fall event.
- The device folds open and closed like a passport to double its screen size.
- It is described as Apple's largest phone display and thinnest iPhone when opened.
- The launch is the first big test for CEO John Ternus, who took over from Tim Cook last week.
- It is the most significant change to the iPhone since its introduction in 2007.
Apple has unveiled the iPhone Duo, the company’s first foldable phone and what it and multiple outlets describe as the most significant change to the iPhone since the smartphone’s introduction in 2007. The device was revealed at Apple’s annual fall product announcement.
According to the Guardian, the new iPhone folds, opening and closing like a passport to double its screen size. The design takes inspiration from Apple’s iPads and combines it with the portability and features of iPhones. When opened, the Guardian reports, it is the company’s largest phone display and Apple’s thinnest iPhone.
The BBC described the launch as the first major design change to the iPhone in almost 20 years, underscoring how unusual a departure the foldable form represents for a product line that has kept a broadly consistent shape since 2007.
The launch also marks a leadership milestone. The iPhone Duo serves as the first big test for John Ternus, who took over as chief executive from Tim Cook last week, according to the Guardian. The high-profile product reveal places the new CEO at center stage in his first days in the role.
Ahead of the event, the Guardian reported that all eyes were on Apple’s fall announcement, with the company expected to unveil the folding device. Later coverage confirmed the phone had been formally introduced during the presentation.
Why it matters
The iPhone remains Apple's flagship product, and a foldable design is the boldest change to its shape in nearly two decades. Arriving just as John Ternus takes over as CEO, the launch is an early signal of the company's direction under new leadership.
Frequently asked questions
What is the new folding iPhone called?
Apple has named the device the iPhone Duo. It is the company's first foldable phone, according to the Guardian and the BBC.
How does the folding iPhone work?
According to the Guardian, the iPhone Duo folds, opening and closing like a passport to double its screen size, and when opened it offers Apple's largest phone display in its thinnest iPhone.
Who is Apple's new CEO?
John Ternus took over as Apple's chief executive from Tim Cook last week, and the iPhone Duo launch is his first big test in the role, according to the Guardian.