Apple's First Foldable iPhone Duo Is Here: New Design, IP68 Rating and India Price — Everything You Need to Know
Apple has finally entered the foldable smartphone market with the launch of the iPhone Duo, marking a major change in the company’s iPhone lineup. The device was unveiled alongside the new iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max at Apple’s September 2026 event.
The iPhone Duo is designed to open like a book, giving users a larger display while retaining a smartphone-like form factor when folded. Its launch puts Apple directly into competition with premium foldable phones from Samsung and other major smartphone manufacturers.
Apple’s First Foldable iPhoneThe iPhone Duo is the first foldable smartphone ever launched by Apple. Unlike conventional iPhones, its display can fold inward, allowing users to carry a larger-screen device in a more compact form.
Apple has focused heavily on the design and engineering of the phone, making the foldable device one of the biggest additions to the iPhone family in years.
IP68 Water and Dust ResistanceDespite its foldable design, the iPhone Duo comes with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance
However, Apple has clarified that the rating comes with certain limitations, so users should still avoid deliberately exposing the device to water or using it underwater.
No Physical SIM Card SlotAnother important detail is that the iPhone Duo is eSIM-only worldwide.
This means the phone does not have a traditional physical SIM card slot. Users will need to activate a compatible eSIM to connect to cellular networks. This could be particularly important for travellers and consumers who frequently switch physical SIM cards.
iPhone 18 Pro Series Also LaunchedApple's foldable launch was accompanied by the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max
The new Pro models are powered by Apple’s A20 Pro chip and introduce several hardware improvements, including an upgraded camera system and other performance enhancements.
When Will the New iPhones Go on Sale in India?Apple has included India among the first-wave markets for the new iPhone 18 Pro models.
Pre-orders for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max began on September 12, 2026
The iPhone Duo represents a significant change in Apple's smartphone strategy. Foldable phones have been available from rival brands for several years, but Apple had stayed away from the category until now.
With its first foldable iPhone, Apple is finally bringing its design, software ecosystem and hardware approach to the rapidly growing foldable-phone segment.
The launch could also increase competition in the premium foldable market, giving consumers another major option alongside existing f