Apple's iPhone Duo faces stiff competition from Samsung and Xiaomi
Apple's entry into the wide foldable market introduces a new shape to a crowded field, but it brings trade-offs in weight and battery life compared to rivals.
Apple has officially unveiled its first foldable device, the iPhone Duo, marking the company's arrival in a segment that has been dominated by other manufacturers for years. Unlike the book-style or flip-style phones that have defined the category so far, the Duo adopts a wide format. This design choice results in a smaller 5.4-inch cover display and a larger 7.6-inch inner screen with a near 4:3 aspect ratio, offering a distinct visual experience compared to the taller, narrower screens found in traditional foldables.
The iPhone Duo enters a market where alternatives are already available and well-established. According to GSMArena, the main competitors include the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 and the newly launched Xiaomi 18 Fold. While Apple brings brand prestige and specific features like stylus support, the hardware specifications reveal clear trade-offs. The Duo is notably thicker and heavier than its rivals, a compromise that may affect how the phone feels in the hand during daily use.
Weight and thickness trade-offs
One of the most immediate differences for users will be the physical build. The iPhone Duo measures 11.3mm in thickness and weighs 254 grams. In comparison, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 is slimmer at 9.7mm and significantly lighter at 201 grams. The Xiaomi 18 Fold also undercuts Apple on weight, coming in at 219 grams with a thickness of 10.7mm. For consumers who prioritize portability and a lighter feel in their pocket, the Apple option presents a clear disadvantage despite its premium positioning.
Battery capacity and charging speeds
Power management is another area where the competition outperforms the new Apple device. The Xiaomi 18 Fold features a massive 6,000mAh battery, which is a substantial advantage for heavy users who need all-day endurance. It supports 67W wired and 50W wireless charging. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 includes a 4,800mAh battery with 45W wired and 20W wireless charging capabilities. Apple has confirmed 25W wireless charging via MagSafe for the Duo, but the battery capacity remains unknown, leaving a gap in the comparison that could impact its competitiveness in endurance tests.
Camera systems and unique features
In terms of photography, the iPhone Duo offers a 48MP main sensor with an f/1.6 lens and sensor-shift optical image stabilization, paired with a 48MP ultra-wide camera. The Samsung rival uses a 50MP main sensor with a smaller physical size and lens-based stabilization. The Xiaomi model goes further with a 200MP main sensor and a dedicated telephoto lens, offering more versatility for zoom shots. Additionally, Apple retains stylus support and an under-display camera, features that Samsung removed in its latest generation, providing unique utility for note-taking and privacy-focused video calls.
