GoKawiilSometimes it really is the details that matter.
Or, in the case of cool new hardware, it's the software that can make or break the experience. Apple forcefully made both points with the launch of its new foldable smartphone, the highly anticipated iPhone Duo, which is expected to ship on October 23 at a starting price of $1,999.
The Duo features a very nice, if arguably derivative, hardware design that at first glance looks similar to other recent passport-style phones, such as Samsung's Z Fold 8. But the phone distinguishes itself with a new version of iOS and multiple applications that have been clearly and cleanly optimized for the foldable form factor.
It's these software refinements that make the iPhone Duo stand out among other foldable competitors. In fact, even with very limited hands-on time with the phone, I'd argue that Apple has redefined the foldable category and experience with the launch of the Duo. From simple adjustments, like moving app icons from the bottom of the screen to the side, to more elaborate touches, such as the visual transition from the front display to the larger inner screen, Apple has created a range of enhancements that make foldables feel brand new.
Given that Samsung first introduced the world to foldable phones back in 2019, that's quite an accomplishment. As a vocal and avid supporter of the category since those early days, I've used every single foldable Samsung has created as my daily driver, so I was very curious to see if Apple could use its very delayed entrance into the category to its advantage.
Clearly, it has.
Admittedly, some of the capabilities Apple showed off on the Duo are similar to features we've seen from companies like Samsung, Motorola, and Google over the years. However, the level of refinement and the collective experience Apple demonstrated at the launch event showed how thoroughly the company has thought through the details to create a true foldable experience, rather than simply putting the same software into a different physical package.
I expect the iPhone Duo will end up becoming the hot new tech status symbol in the near term.
Speaking of hardware, on closer inspection the iPhone Duo does have some important differences compared with other foldable designs. Compared with Samsung's Z Fold 8, for example, the Duo is slightly shorter and wider, both when folded and unfolded, giving it a form factor that's a bit easier to hold. However, the Z Fold 8 is a noticeable 1.87 ounces lighter and about 0.7mm thinner, likely reflecting the many years of experience Samsung has had refining and shrinking its foldable designs.
The hinge designs are different as well, which could partially explain the weight difference, with Apple's design feeling a bit firmer, though the distinction is relatively subtle. The iPhone Duo also has a more robust IP68 water and dust resistance rating versus the Z Fold 8's IP48.
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