On Friday, eager shoppers lined up outside the Apple Store on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach, all hoping to get their hands on the iPhone Duo, Apple's inaugural foldable smartphone, as it became available for purchase in over 70 countries.
The anticipation was so high that some enthusiasts began gathering outside the store as early as Wednesday, two days before the official release. Equipped with folding chairs, hammocks, and even pets, they braved the rain to secure their spot.
Joseph Wiener was among the earliest to arrive, setting up at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, while his friends joined him at 10:00 a.m. that same day. Ricardo Favarego joined the queue at 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday.
"I got here the night before last," one of the individuals in line told Univision.
The store started welcoming shoppers in small groups around 7:30 a.m. on Friday. However, Apple warned that there would be a very limited stock available for those without prior reservations, meaning not everyone in line would be able to purchase the device.
Jason, one of the lucky ones, had been waiting since Wednesday and was among the first to showcase the phone. Another customer, Jennings, shared his excitement: "I had been using essentially the same phone for a while and was waiting for the Duo because it offered something different."
The iPhone Duo hits the market starting at $1,999 for the 256 GB version, with additional options available in 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB, and comes in star white and night blue.
The device features a 5.4-inch external OLED display and a 7.6-inch foldable interior OLED screen, both equipped with ProMotion technology offering up to 120 Hz and a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits.
When unfolded, the smartphone is just 5.2 mm thick. It boasts an IP68 rating, a titanium frame, and Ceramic Shield protection, along with the A20 Pro chip that delivers up to 31 hours of video playback on the interior screen.
Apple officially unveiled the Duo on September 9, 2026, with pre-orders beginning on October 16, selling out in minutes. Some orders have delivery dates projected as far out as January 2027, and the company limited purchases to two units per customer during this phase.
With this launch, Apple makes its mark in a segment that Samsung has dominated since 2019 with its Galaxy Z Fold series. The latest model, the Galaxy Z Fold8, retails in the United States for $1,899.99. Analysts from Counterpoint Research predict that Apple could seize around 28% of the foldable smartphone market after entering this category.
In 2025, approximately 20.6 million foldable devices were shipped globally, representing just 1.4% of the total smartphone market. However, the category is experiencing steady growth, with a 30% expansion projected for this year.
A second wave of availability for the iPhone Duo is set for October 30 in an additional 28 countries and regions.
Key Insights on iPhone Duo Launch
What makes the iPhone Duo unique compared to other smartphones?
The iPhone Duo stands out due to its foldable design, featuring both an external and internal OLED screen with ProMotion technology, titanium frame, and advanced A20 Pro chip, offering a fresh experience for Apple users.
How does the iPhone Duo compare to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series?
While both the iPhone Duo and Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold series offer foldable technology, the iPhone Duo introduces Apple's design aesthetics and ecosystem compatibility, potentially attracting a different segment of the market.
What are the expected trends in the foldable smartphone market?
The foldable smartphone market is projected to grow significantly, with analysts expecting a 30% expansion this year. Apple's entry could boost competition and innovation, potentially increasing consumer interest and adoption.