The first reviews of Apple's foldable iPhone Duo have been published, giving users a closer look at the American company's first foldable smartphone ahead of its official launch scheduled for Friday. Reports from prominent tech platforms agreed that the device represents an expensive product full of compromises, but at the same time offers an enjoyable early experience that hints at the future direction of smartphones.
Critics such as Nele Patty and Allison Johnson from The Verge described the device as completely incomplete as a product, but complete as an idea that clearly shows where the phone industry is headed, comparing it to the launch of the original MacBook Air, which required a complete redesign before eventually dominating the market.
Processor Performance, Heat, and Battery
Regarding internal hardware, Raymond Wong of Gizmodo praised the powerful performance of Apple's new A20 Pro processor, noting that it features the same six-core CPU, seven-core GPU, and dual-core Neural Engine found in the iPhone 18 Pro models. Thanks to the integrated vapor chamber, the device maintains sustained performance up to 35% higher than previous-generation versions without noticeable thermal throttling.
In Geekbench 7 performance tests, the iPhone Duo achieved results nearly identical to the iPhone 18 Pro, scoring 4,002 points in single-core and 10,728 in multi-core, significantly outperforming its direct competitor, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, especially in GPU tests where the phone outperformed by a wide margin.
As for battery life, Mark Spoonauer's test from Tom's Guide involving 5G web browsing at 150 nits of brightness showed that the iPhone Duo lasted for 13 hours and 20 minutes, outperforming Samsung's Z Fold 8 which recorded 10 hours and 6 minutes, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max reached about 17 hours and 31 minutes.
Display, Application, and Biometric Control Challenges
The reviews highlighted several challenges facing users with this first generation:
- Apps and Display Experience: Julian Chokkattu from WIRED noted that many third-party applications still need updating to fully support the 7.6-inch inner display, currently appearing with letterboxed side bars until they are recompiled using the iOS 27.1 SDK. In contrast, Abrar Al-Heiti of CNET pointed out the ease of using the 5.4-inch outer display for quick tasks, while the inner display with its matte coating provides excellent visual comfort for reading and media monitoring.
- Elimination of Face ID: Chance Miller from 9to5Mac explained that moving from Face ID to Touch ID integrated into the side button takes time to get used to, despite its speed and reliability, especially when the phone is laid flat on a table. The device also supports Apple Watch unlock to facilitate the experience.
- Cameras: The phone includes two 48-megapixel rear cameras for the main and ultra-wide (Fusion Main & Ultra Wide), with the absence of a telephoto lens.
Why This News Matters
The launch of the iPhone Duo represents a milestone for Apple and its official entry into the foldable phone market, which it had long avoided cautiously to avoid risks. Tracking these first reviews allows consumers and developers to understand the delicate balance between technical innovation and practical compromises associated with first-generation devices, helping potential buyers decide whether to purchase the device immediately or wait until the ecosystem, apps, and hardware mature.