Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman states that the iPhone Duo is positioned to become a landmark product for Apple. He predicts that the device will drive foldable smartphones to become the mainstream form factor for mobile computing within the next decade.
The iPhone Duo features a starting price of $1,999. Apple intends to expand the lineup in the future, potentially introducing models such as the iPhone Duo Max, Duo SE, or Duo mini, similar to the strategy used for standard iPhone series.
Currently, foldable smartphones account for approximately 2% of global smartphone shipments, despite entering the market seven years ago with the Samsung Galaxy Fold. Gurman expects this share to grow significantly as the iPhone Duo gains market traction.
Apple has integrated specific use cases for the device, including an upgraded standby mode for widgets, new camera features that utilize the second screen as a viewfinder, and a dedicated alarm mode. The company is focusing on video, gaming, and photography.
While foldable devices are currently expensive, Gurman anticipates that costs will decrease over time due to technological advancements and the potential international expansion of Apple's upgrade leasing programs, shifting focus from full purchase prices to monthly fees.
