iPhone Duo preorder opens ahead of Oct. 23 release date

The Duo is Apple’s first attempt at a foldable phone. It uses a passport-style form factor with an inner display that folds shut, and it includes a hidden selfie camera. Inside, the phone runs on Apple’s A20 Pro chip and has a hinge designed to improve cooling. The inner display uses a matte finish described by early testers as premium, though some reviewers noted it can feel slippery without a case.

Apple’s preorder page offers trade-in credits that can trim the upfront cost. Trade-in values can vary based on your current device and condition. Apple also provides an Upgrade program through Klarna, which lets you lease the iPhone Duo for monthly payments instead of paying the full price upfront.

Carrier deals are another route to lower initial costs. AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon and others typically pair trade-ins with monthly plans or credits, though you’ll need to sign up for a compatible wireless plan and meet other conditions. The savings are enough that, when paired with trade-ins, many buyers could see a substantial reduction in the effective upfront price.

If you’re curious about how a foldable might fit into daily use, the Duo’s hinge and inner screen aim to balance phone-like portability with tablet-like multitasking. Expect a learning curve around the fold and how apps resize when you switch from folded to unfolded modes. The lack of Face ID and reliance on Touch ID in the side button will be a noticeable change for some users used to Apple’s facial recognition, especially at higher price points.

Preorders are live now, with the official release on Oct. 23. If you’re eyeing the top configurations, you’ll want to act sooner rather than later, as availability can be limited and color options may sell out in certain regions.