Apple's new foldable phone needs extra gear to work

Apple’s iPhone Duo is on store shelves, but it does not arrive with everything needed to use its most advertised features. The company’s first foldable phone requires separate purchases for a stylus and a fast charger, costs that can total $249 for a buyer starting from scratch. These items are not optional if a user wants to write on the screen or charge the device at maximum speed.

The first major expense is the Apple Pencil. Apple Pencil support is a new capability for the iPhone line, allowing users to write notes and sketch on both the inner and outer displays. Apple states the design was based on the proportions of a standard A-series paper notebook. The feature is not active yet and will arrive in the iOS 27.2 update next week. Only the Apple Pencil with a USB-C connector is compatible, and it currently sells for $69 after a price drop from $79.

Charging speed is the second area where hardware matters. The iPhone Duo can reach 50 percent battery in about 20 minutes, but only if paired with a specific power adapter. The box includes a USB-C cable but no charger, a pattern common in recent Apple phones. While many households have 20W adapters, faster charging requires more power. Recommended options include Apple’s 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max for $34, or an Anker 100W USB-C charger for $29.

For daily use, drivers and commuters may need additional accessories. A MagSafe car mount, such as the ESR model priced at $19, holds the phone magnetically. This setup allows CarPlay to display maps on the car’s screen while the phone shows step-by-step directions. The larger display of the Duo is expected to make this navigation setup more effective than on traditional iPhone models.

Protection and home integration also drive accessory spending. Third-party cases range from $29 for a magnetic case with a built-in stand to $39 for a clear MagSafe-compatible option. Apple offers its own Folio with Kickstand for $129 and a standard case for $79. The phone’s upgraded StandBy mode also allows users to view security cameras. Two recommended HomeKit-compatible models are the Aqara G100 2K camera at $39 and a eufy 4K camera at $69. A pair of AirPods Pro 3 is available for $199 for those needing new headphones.

The iPhone Duo launched with these accessories already in the market. The pricing reflects current discounts on several items, including the stylus and car mount. Buyers must decide which of these components are necessary for their specific needs before the iOS update arrives next week.