The iPhone Duo goes on sale today, starting at $1,999. The folding device features a 5.4-inch outer display that unfolds into a 7.6-inch inner display, and early reviews offer a mixed assessment that praises fresh ideas while noting significant compromises.
iPhone Duo early impressions
Reviewers highlight the matte inner display for reducing reflections, making the crease less noticeable and providing more room for reading, watching video, editing photos and multitasking. Premium construction and strong performance are generally seen as positives, but the software experience is described as inconsistent: unoptimized apps, wasted screen space and unfamiliar controls can leave the larger display feeling underused.
Opinions are divided on whether the outer screen handles quick, everyday tasks comfortably. Some reviewers find it adequate for messaging and brief interactions; others call it restrictive. The device’s weight and width complicate one-handed use, the return of Touch ID requires adjustment, and the cameras do not match Apple’s Pro models. A 24-hour hands-on highlighted many of the same trade-offs alongside the appeal of side-by-side multitasking, leaving questions about whether carrying a larger screen outweighs those compromises or if improved app support and future hardware will strengthen the case.
Touchscreen MacBooks and other upcoming Apple hardware
Apple’s next product announcement, titled ‘Pro and tell’, is scheduled for October 28 in Los Angeles. Redesigned 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are expected to headline the event, combining OLED displays with the first touchscreens on a Mac. Rumors say the machines will be lighter and potentially thinner, feature a reinforced hinge for touch input and use a Dynamic Island to replace the notch. The laptops are expected to retain M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, making display and design the primary new features.
A redesigned iPad mini is also expected, with an OLED display, the A20 Pro chip, a landscape front-facing camera and a redesigned speaker system; water resistance could appear for the first time on an iPad. Apple is additionally expected to bring an M6 chip to the iMac and the entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro.
Anniversary and how to follow the podcast
The original iPod was introduced on October 23, 2001; today marks 25 years since that launch. The podcast episode discussed above is available on YouTube as well as on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast and other podcast apps, and via RSS for direct subscription. The previous episode covered predictions about the HomeView, HomePod mini 2 and a new Apple TV 4K. The show often features familiar guests such as Tyler Stalman, Michael Fisher, Kayci Lacob, Kevin Nether, John Gruber, Mark Gurman, Jon Prosser, Luke Miani, Matthew Cassinelli, Brian Tong, Quinn Nelson, Jared Nelson, Eli Hodapp, Mike Bell, Sara Dietschy, iJustine, Jon Rettinger, Andru Edwards, Arnold Kim, Ben Sullins, Marcus Kane, Christopher Lawley, Frank McShan, David Lewis, Sam Kohl, Federico Viticci, Thomas Frank, Jonathan Morrison, Ross Young, Ian Zelbo and Rene Ritchie. Subscribe to the podcast for new episodes every week.
