iPhone Duo goes on sale: Apple’s foldable reaches stores

Oh, so now the iPhone folds. Fine, that is a little exciting. Apple’s iPhone Duo launch on October 23 brings the iPhone Duo from keynote slides to store demonstrations and retail availability, including in Canada. The fun part is that you can finally try the thing. The less fun part is remembering that trying it and taking it home are two very different financial decisions.

Come on, let’s open it.

Two screens, one very expensive pocket

Apple’s launch specifications give it a 5.4-inch outer display, a 7.6-inch inner display and the A20 Pro chip. Touch ID lives in the side button. You get a choice of star white or night sky, with prices starting at US$1,999 for 256GB. That’s the US price, not a Canadian quote. A rather important little distinction before anyone gets attached.

The bit worth watching is the handoff between the screens. In a demo, open your usual apps, rotate the phone and type a message. Does the larger canvas make that easier? Lovely. Does it mostly give a cookie banner room to stretch its legs? Less lovely. Extra space needs to earn its pocket space.

One more thing before you start choosing a colour.

Treat the store demo like a small audition

Try holding it closed, too. Read a long page, reach for the keyboard and think about carrying it every day. It should feel comfortable in the boring moments as well as the impressive ones. That photo of two perfectly arranged apps is charming; your thumbs still get a vote.

Apple’s published rollout adds another 28 markets on October 30. That doesn’t guarantee stock in your nearest shop, so check the local listing. We’re covering the release here; we haven’t independently tested the battery, cameras or durability.

DeviceCritique’s take

Tempted by that bigger workspace? Give a separate tablet a fair look before the hinge wins you over. Our Galaxy Tab S12 report offers another approach, and our smartphone coverage follows the wider launch picture. I’m not immune to a clever fold. I just want it to do something useful after the first delighted open-and-close.

Featured image: Apple. Image source.