Apple Unveils $1,999 Foldable iPhone Duo Under New CEO John Ternus
Apple has launched the iPhone Duo, a US$1,999 foldable smartphone, marking a significant product expansion under new CEO John Ternus. The device features a 19 cm screen and custom chips, aiming to challenge incumbents like Samsung and Huawei in the foldable market.
Apple Inc. has officially entered the foldable smartphone market with the launch of the iPhone Duo, priced at US$1,999. This major product introduction comes under the leadership of John Ternus, who assumed the role of CEO on September 1, succeeding Tim Cook.
The iPhone Duo is designed to open into a horizontal 19 cm screen, while remaining passport-sized when folded. To support this form factor, the device utilizes an A20 Pro chip and a new C2 modem chip designed by Apple. The introduction of the C2 modem signifies a strategic shift away from Qualcomm components for wireless connectivity.
Industry analysts at International Data Corp. (IDC) project that Apple could secure a 40 percent share of the foldable niche by the end of next year. This prediction sets the stage for increased competition with existing leaders in the sector, such as Samsung and Huawei. Currently, Huawei holds nearly 80 percent of the foldable phone market in China.
In addition to the foldable model, Apple unveiled the non-folding iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. These devices start at US$1,199 and US$1,299, respectively, representing a US$100 price increase from the previous generation. The company also introduced updated AirPods featuring noise cancellation, starting at US$129, along with new Apple Watch models.
The launch event highlighted several software and privacy initiatives, including AI privacy features and a new image authenticity standard called 'Apple Reference Image.' Notably, this verification feature will not be available in the European Union or China. Supply chain partnerships were also emphasized, with Micron Technology CEO Sanjay Mehrotra attending the event to underscore the importance of memory suppliers for high-performance devices.
Following the presentation, Apple's stock shares closed down 0.3 per cent.