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Apple has released the MacBook Neo, a low-cost laptop priced at $700 that uses a repurposed iPhone processor rather than an M-series chip found in other current Macs. The launch comes shortly before the MacBook Air's price rose by $200 to $1,300, reportedly due to tariffs and rising memory costs.
Reports note that closing background apps on an iPhone does not meaningfully extend battery life, contrary to common belief. Instead, settings such as disabling Background App Refresh and restricting apps' location access to only when in use are presented as more effective ways to conserve power.
CNET explains that a common cause of iPhone and Android charging failures isn't damaged cables or ports but a buildup of dust, lint and debris inside the charging port itself. Over months or years, this debris compacts into a solid blockage that prevents the charging cable from fully connecting. The outlet notes this issue affects both Lightning ports on older iPhones and USB-C ports on newer iPhones and Android devices like the Pixel 11 Pro and Galaxy S26 Ultra.
Engadget published its review of Apple's first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, alongside other product reviews including the Rivian R2. The review found the device heavy, expensive, and lacking full app optimization for its interior screen, but praised it as a polished first attempt overall.
Developers have begun releasing apps designed around the iPhone Duo's folding hinge and dual screens, with Apple adding a 'Made for iPhone Duo' badge to highlight ones built for the larger display. Examples include Battlefleet Duo, a board-game-style naval battler that uses tabletop mode for local multiplayer, and Flipcorder, a retro camcorder app that turns opening the device into 'removing the lens cap.' A reviewer who has covered Android foldables for years says their inbox has seen an unusual surge of pitches from indie developers eager to showcase apps for Apple's first foldable phone.
Social media and forum posts from owners in the US, Australia and China show the $2,000 foldable iPhone Duo developing a distinctive L-shaped crack running along the fold and extending across the internal display. One Australian buyer said the screen cracked just six hours after purchase after fewer than 20 folds, with no visible external damage. Apple Stores have reportedly granted full replacements in some cases, though phone support offered a slower paid-hold process.
Apple is accepting new applications for its Security Research Device Program, which provides specially configured iPhones to security researchers. The program's current application window remains open until October 30, 2026.
Apple engineer Jen Simmons wrote on the WebKit blog that the company is looking at ways to let websites better use the iPhone Duo's outer display, which currently can't extend content behind Safari's right-aligned controls. The post, detailing changes in Safari 27.1 around how sites adapt to the device's screens and folding positions, follows reviews criticizing the cramped browsing experience on the 5.4-inch outer screen.
Apple has released detailed DIY repair manuals and safety guides for the newly launched iPhone Duo, covering component replacement procedures, battery and glass safety precautions, and internal diagrams. Genuine replacement parts for the device are not yet available through Apple's Self Service Repair Store, though the manuals are live now.
CNET purchased an iPhone Duo and placed it in its custom-built 'Fold-a-Phone' testing rig to measure how many open-close cycles the hinge and dual screens can withstand before failing. The same machine is already being used to test Samsung's Galaxy Fold 8, allowing direct durability comparisons between the two foldables. CNET plans to share live updates via a YouTube stream and ongoing testing results.
Early buyers of Apple's new iPhone Duo foldable are reporting cracked inner displays near the hinge crease shortly after purchase. One Reddit user said their screen cracked audibly after fewer than 20 folds within six hours of ownership, and Apple replaced the device on the spot at an Apple Store. Similar reports have surfaced from early markets including China and Australia.
9to5Mac released its October 23, 2026 daily podcast episode covering recent rumors about an upcoming MacBook Pro and discussion of apps for the rumored iPhone Duo device. The episode is distributed via Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play and RSS feed, and is sponsored by Backblaze.