The iPhone Duo Will Run iOS 27.1 at Launch on Friday
Apple's new foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, will launch with a specialized version of iOS 27.1 to support its unique hardware. While this version is exclusive to the new device at launch, Apple plans to unify software updates with iOS 27.2 later this year.
Why it matters
This release marks Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone market, with a software strategy designed to ensure a smooth user experience for a new form factor.
Apple said update has features built specifically for the new iPhone design.
Read full bio October 21, 2026, 5:09 pm ET
The iPhone Duo, Apple's first foldable phone, is available in stores Oct. 23. Apple/CNET Apple told CNET in an email in September that when the tech giant launches the iPhone Duo this Friday, Oct. 23, the foldable will launch with iOS 27.1, skipping right past iOS 27 .
“When iPhone Duo first becomes available on October 23, it will run iOS 27.1,” Apple said. “This version of iOS builds on the foundation of iOS 27 but introduces features that were purpose-built for the new foldable design.”
Because of those iPhone Duo-specific features, and the fact that Apple began the beta process for iOS 27.2 on Wednesday, Sept. 16, you may not see iOS 27.1 on your device unless you were able to preorder the iPhone Duo.
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