The rumours were true. After months of speculation, Apple has officially announced it is launching a foldable phone.

Of course, this concept is far from new. Most of the other phone makers have had foldable and flip phone designs in their lineups for a few years. But Apple's hold out on introducing this kind of device to its range may have been for a good reason. The iPhone Duo is arguably one of the most considered foldable devices on the market.

Now that Apple users are having their first exposure to a foldable design, it poses the question: why exactly would you buy a foldable phone? These phones are not designed to be for everyone, but there are a few key reasons this could be the perfect device for you.

Productivity on the go

Are you someone with a long commute on public transport? Are you travelling as a car passenger between meetings? Do you fly regularly with only carry on luggage? A foldable device might be perfect for you.

When you unfold your phone, you have what it closer to a small laptop or tablet screen rather than a phone. It means you can open two tabs side by side. Maybe your notes app alongside your email, or an internet browser next to a Google doc. It means you can answer emails, write notes, create reports, edit spreadsheets all while you're on the move – and without having to pull your laptop out of your bag while you're on the train.

It can act like an e-reader

As someone who is near-surgically attached to her e-reader, it is undeniably tempting to have a phone that can flip into an e-reader. Sometimes, I don't want to carry two devices, especially when I'm carrying a mini bag. A foldable phone means you never really have to leave your e-reader at home, even if you only have pockets or a clutch.

It works as multiple devices, but in one

The iPhone Duo has deliberately been designed to perform in a similar way to an iPad when unfolded. It's even compatible with your Apple pencil. If you've been thinking about upgrading your phone and your tablet, the iPhone Duo could be the one device that gives you two.

It does things a typical phone can't

The two-sided screen offers features you can't get with the typical design of a smartphone. For example, the iPhone Duo allows the subject of a picture to be able to see themselves in the front screen before a picture is being taken so they can adjust their position and pose to their liking. You can also do a half-fold and position it like a laptop, so your phone stays in place when you're watching video.

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