Apple Enters a New Era: iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro Unveiled

Apple has unveiled a major lineup of new products at one of the year's most anticipated technology events. Alongside the company's first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, Apple introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12, Apple Watch Ultra 4 and the new AirPods 5. The event also marked one of the first major product launches under new Apple CEO John Ternus, giving the presentation additional significance for the company.

The undisputed star of the event was Apple's long-awaited entry into the foldable smartphone market. Called the iPhone Duo, the new device combines a large foldable display with a conventional external screen, marking a major change in Apple's approach to the iPhone.

iPhone Duo: Apple's First Foldable iPhone

The iPhone Duo features a 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR display when unfolded. Apple says the panel offers around 50 percent more screen area than the iPhone 18 Pro Max and approximately 80 percent more than the iPhone 18 Pro. A 5.4-inch external display provides a more traditional smartphone experience when the device is closed.

Durability is another major focus of the design. Structural support beams are incorporated into the central section of the phone, while areas around the antennas are reinforced with high-performance ceramic components. The rear panel uses Ceramic Shield, while the front is protected by the newer Ceramic Shield 2. The phone also carries an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.

For security, Apple has integrated Touch ID into the side button. The iPhone Duo can also be unlocked using an Apple Watch. The device will be available in two finishes, Star White and Night Sky. Apple Pencil support for both the inner and outer displays is expected to arrive later in the year.

iPhone 18 Pro Series Focuses on Battery Life

The new iPhone 18 Pro models put a strong emphasis on energy efficiency alongside performance. Powered by Apple's A20 Pro chip, the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to deliver battery life close to the larger Pro Max despite its more compact dimensions.

According to Apple, the iPhone 18 Pro can provide up to 36 hours of video playback, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max reaches up to 45 hours. Under typical usage conditions, the two models are rated for up to 24 and 30 hours of use respectively.

Wired charging has also been improved. The phones can reach around 50 percent charge in approximately 15 minutes, while a five-minute charge can provide up to six hours of video playback.

AirPods 5 Bring Better Audio and Smarter Features

Apple describes the AirPods 5 as its most advanced open-design AirPods yet. The new model delivers a richer and more detailed audio experience while offering a 50 percent improvement in noise reduction compared with the AirPods 4.

The feature set goes beyond sound quality. AirPods 5 include active noise cancellation, Transparency Mode and an adaptive mode that can automatically switch between the two depending on the surrounding environment. Apple is also bringing live translation to the earbuds, while direct volume control through the stems adds another practical improvement.

Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4

Apple's smartwatch lineup has also received a major refresh. The Apple Watch Series 12 arrives as the successor to the previous generation, with improvements aimed at connectivity, health monitoring, durability and battery efficiency.

At the top of the range, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 combines the rugged design of the Ultra family with a broader set of software features. Support for the new Siri AI assistant, a redesigned app grid in watchOS 27, enhanced health and fitness tracking and improved battery optimization are among its headline features.

Apple is also continuing to develop the capabilities that have become central to the Ultra line, including long battery life, cellular connectivity, satellite communication and emergency services.

iOS 27 Brings More Personalization and AI

Apple's software ecosystem is also receiving a significant update. One of the most notable additions in iOS 27 is Siri AI, the company's delayed push toward a more capable artificial intelligence assistant. The feature is initially expected to arrive in beta for selected languages, with additional language support following later.

The interface also receives a series of customization options. A new Liquid Glass control allows users to adjust the level of transparency, while built-in app icons receive updated designs and colors. Larger widget options are also being introduced for the Home Screen.

Other changes include a smaller Lock Screen clock and independent volume controls for ringtones, alarms, timers, notifications and system sounds.

A New Chapter for Apple

This year's event represents more than the arrival of another generation of iPhones, Apple Watches and AirPods. With the iPhone Duo, Apple is finally entering the foldable smartphone market, while the iPhone 18 Pro family continues the company's traditional flagship strategy.

The timing is also significant because the event represents one of the first major product showcases under John Ternus. His biggest challenge will be balancing Apple's established strengths in hardware and ecosystem integration with the rapidly evolving worlds of foldable devices and artificial intelligence.

For Apple, the next chapter has officially begun.