Apple Enters Foldable Era With Passport-Sized Duo, Unveils iPhone 18 Pro Line

Apple has entered the foldable smartphone market with the launch of the Duo, a passport-sized device that opens into a wide, horizontal screen. The company describes the Duo as its thinnest phone when fully open, featuring a smaller single display on the front for use when folded. The device marks the most significant design overhaul of Apple's flagship product since the removal of the physical home button in 2017.

The launch event, the first presided over by new CEO John Ternus, also saw the introduction of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. These non-folding handsets start at $1,199 and $1,299 respectively, a $100 increase over their predecessors. The new Pro models are powered by the A20 Pro chip, designed to run advanced AI models directly on the device.

Ternus emphasized the iPhone's role as a personal AI hub focused on privacy, stating that Apple Intelligence runs on-device whenever possible. The company also showcased an updated Siri assistant, which will be compatible with 300,000 apps at launch. To address concerns about manipulated media, Apple introduced its 'Apple Reference Image' standard for authenticating photos, a feature that will not be available in the EU or China.

Beyond the iPhone, Apple announced new AirPods starting at $129, marking the first time noise cancellation is available on its budget earbuds line. The company also unveiled the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4, which feature a redesigned sensor system for more frequent heart-rate tracking and new fitness recovery metrics.

Analysts suggest the Duo could carry a price tag exceeding $2,000, a new high for the company. Despite the premium pricing, industry observers expect Apple to capture a significant share of the foldable market. The event signals a shift in Apple's product schedule, with updates to more affordable iPhone models reportedly delayed until next spring.