Buying an iPhone Duo? Here are The Hidden Costs You Should Know About

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that the iPhone Duo is one of the most interesting devices launched this year. After all, this is Apple’s first-ever foldable phone and with that hefty price tag of almost Rs 3 lakh, it is a one-of-its-kind product. The phone’s pre-orders go live in India from tomorrow (October 16) and it will be available from October 23. Now if you’re planning to buy an iPhone Duo, you are obviously aware of the high price tag. But is that all you’re gonna have to pay? Not really. There are a couple of hidden costs that you need to know about as well which might make this an even more expensive purchase. Let’s get down to the specifics.

iPhone Duo repair costs in India

First off, let’s talk about repairs in case accidents happen. Apple has shared the estimated repair costs for the iPhone duo and the whole affair could be expensive, especially if the inner folding display gets damaged.

Replacing the cover layer is estimated to cost Rs 5,900, while fixing the back glass could set buyers back Rs 20,900.

On the other hand, replacing the outer display is estimated to cost Rs 42,900. And if the outer screen and rear glass are both damaged, the repair bill could rise to Rs 55,900.

However, the biggest expense is replacing the inner folding display, which is expected to cost Rs 1,49,900. That is close to the price of a premium flagship smartphone such as the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra 5G.

Other repairs can also add to the cost of ownership. Replacing the rear camera setup is estimated to cost Rs 26,900, while a battery replacement could cost Rs 24,900. For more extensive damage, the estimated repair cost under the 'other damages’ category reaches Rs 2,24,900. Apple has not provided a detailed breakdown of what this category includes.

These figures make it worth considering the cost of protection before buying the iPhone Duo. A single major repair could take a significant chunk out of the budget, especially if you decide to skip Apple Care+.

AppleCare+ adds to the total cost

Speaking of Apple Care+, do factor in the cost of protecting the phone against accidental damage. AppleCare+ for the iPhone Duo is listed at Rs 51,900 in India for two years. That is a substantial additional expense, although it could help reduce the amount that you pay for eligible repairs.

Whether the plan is worth buying depends on how long you intend to keep the phone, how you plan to use it and how much financial risk you are willing to take.

Protecting the iPhone Duo

A case is one of the first accessories that you may want to consider for a premium phone. Apple's official accessories store lists the iPhone Duo Case at Rs 8,900, while the iPhone Duo Folio with Kickstand costs Rs 14,900. This means that you could end up spending nearly Rs 15,000 more if you want Apple's folio-style case with a built-in stand.

Apple says the phone has a Grade 5 titanium frame and hinge cover, Ceramic Shield protection and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The company also says the hinge is designed for long-term reliability. However, the device's durability over several years of everyday use will become clearer only after it reaches more users.

Battery service cost

Apple claims the iPhone Duo can deliver up to 31 hours of video playback when using the inner display. The actual battery life will depend on usage, brightness, connectivity and the apps running on the phone.

Battery health also matters if buyers plan to keep the device for three or four years. Like other smartphones, the Duo's battery will gradually lose capacity with use. Apple lists battery service at Rs 24,900 without additional coverage, making it worth considering the potential cost of keeping the phone running well over the long term.

The iPhone Duo offers a new form factor for Apple's smartphone lineup, but it is best to look beyond its headline features. Accessories, protection, battery service and long-term durability all play a role in the total cost of ownership. For a device starting at Rs 2,99,900, those are worth considering before placing an order.

So will you buy the iPhone Duo? Let us know and keep watching this space for more such updates.