Apple’s newly released foldable iPhone Duo experienced strong demand on its launch day, selling out quickly at retail stores despite receiving mixed reviews and reports of screen damage. The device became available on Friday, drawing long lines of eager customers in New York City and other major markets. By mid-morning, several flagship Apple stores had already sold out of walk-in inventory, prompting a surge in resale prices on secondary markets such as eBay, where units were listed at prices up to $10,000—approximately five times the retail cost.
Early adopters praised the phone’s innovative design, particularly its nearly seamless hinge and the large 7.6-inch internal display, which features a matte finish to reduce glare. Reviewers highlighted the robust titanium casing and smooth folding mechanism, noting these as significant engineering achievements. Scores from technology critics varied, with Engadget rating the device 8.8 out of 10 and describing it as “worth the wait,” while The Verge and Wired assigned scores of 7 out of 10. Wired, in particular, called the iPhone Duo an “astonishingly good first foldable,” praising Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market.
Despite these positive remarks, some critics pointed to notable drawbacks. The device’s thickness and weight—254 grams and 11.3 millimeters when folded—were commonly cited as issues impacting portability. Additionally, the inward-facing display retains a visible crease, which some users reported feeling when touching the screen. Apple’s anti-reflective coating, designed to minimize glare, also appears to dull colors and reduce contrast compared to Apple’s standard non-folding iPhones.
The smaller 5.4-inch outer screen generated divided opinions. Some appreciated its compactness, while others felt it limited usability, with apps and websites appearing cramped. The Wall Street Journal reviewed the device less favorably, calling it “Too Much iPhone, Too Little iPad,” and commented that despite the large inner screen, the Duo lacks the productivity features and multitasking capabilities typically associated with tablets.
Concerns have also emerged about the device’s durability. Multiple users have reported cracks developing along the internal hinge area shortly after purchase. One Reddit user detailed their iPhone Duo’s screen cracking within six hours, describing an audible snap when opening the phone. The individual noted no external damage prior to the failure and received a replacement device promptly from Apple. Videos shared online suggest that similar cracks may be occurring in the same hinge area for other users. Repair costs for the inner display reportedly reach $999, raising questions about long-term ownership expenses.
Overall, the iPhone Duo’s blend of cutting-edge design and lingering technical challenges has generated a polarized reception as it enters the competitive foldable phone market.