Apple has introduced its latest premium smartphones: the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and the company’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo.
Announced at Apple’s September 2026 event, the new devices bring major changes to performance, photography, artificial intelligence and mobile multitasking. However, Apple did not introduce a standard iPhone 18 during this launch event.
For Apple users in Merthyr Tydfil, the launch provides several new choices, ranging from the familiar Pro design to an entirely new foldable iPhone experience.
What Is New in the iPhone 18 Pro?
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max retain the traditional iPhone design while introducing updated internal hardware and camera capabilities.
Both models are powered by Apple’s new A20 Pro chip, which has been designed to improve performance, energy efficiency, graphics and on-device artificial intelligence features.
The new Pro models also include a 48-megapixel main camera with a variable-aperture system. This allows the camera to adjust more effectively to different lighting conditions while offering users greater control over depth of field and low-light photography.
The key improvements include:
- Apple A20 Pro processor
- Improved camera performance
- Variable-aperture main camera
- Better on-device AI processing
- Improved battery efficiency
- Updated photography and video features
- Additional storage options
For customers who prefer a conventional smartphone design, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max remain the most familiar options in Apple’s new premium range.
Meet the iPhone Duo: Apple’s First Foldable iPhone
The biggest announcement was the iPhone Duo, Apple’s first folding smartphone.
When closed, the iPhone Duo has a 5.4-inch outer display. It opens like a book to reveal a larger 7.6-inch internal screen, providing more space for videos, documents, games, calls and multitasking.
The iPhone Duo allows users to display two compatible applications side by side. It also supports Apple Pencil functionality and uses Touch ID built into the side button instead of the traditional Face ID system.
Its main features include:
- 5.4-inch external screen
- 7.6-inch foldable internal display
- A20 Pro processor
- Dual-screen multitasking
- Apple Pencil support
- Side-button Touch ID
- Up to 2TB of storage
- Apple-designed C2 modem
- Titanium construction
- USB-C charging
Pre-orders for the iPhone Duo are expected to begin on 16 October, with general availability scheduled for 23 October 2026.
Should You Buy the iPhone 18 Pro Max or iPhone Duo?
The right choice will depend on how you normally use your phone.
The iPhone 18 Pro may be more suitable for customers who want a powerful iPhone with an improved camera, strong performance and a familiar design.
The iPhone 18 Pro Max provides a larger conventional display and may appeal to users who frequently watch videos, play games, edit content or require longer battery performance.
The iPhone Duo is designed for users who want a phone and tablet-style experience in one device. Its larger internal screen may be particularly useful for multitasking, work applications, video calls and entertainment.
Because the iPhone Duo uses a flexible screen, custom hinge and dual-display construction, it is more mechanically complex than a traditional iPhone. Owners should take particular care to protect the internal display, hinge and outer screen.
Protecting Your New iPhone
New premium smartphones can be expensive to repair, especially during the first few months after launch when replacement components may have limited availability.
To protect an iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max or iPhone Duo:
- Use a strong protective case
- Apply a suitable screen protector
- Keep the device away from excessive heat and moisture
- Avoid using damaged or low-quality charging cables
- Do not force the hinge of a foldable device
- Back up important data regularly
- Have charging or display faults inspected promptly
A minor crack or charging issue can become more serious when it is ignored. Early inspection can help identify whether the problem is related to the screen, battery, charging port, software or internal components.
iPhone Repair in Merthyr Tydfil
At iCrack Merthyr, we provide professional iPhone repair services for customers throughout Merthyr Tydfil and surrounding areas.
Our existing iPhone services include:
iPhone Screen Replacement
We assess cracked, smashed, flickering, unresponsive and black iPhone displays. Screen replacement options depend on the model and availability of suitable replacement parts.
Battery Replacement
A battery may require inspection if the phone drains quickly, becomes unusually hot, switches off unexpectedly or no longer holds charge properly.
Charging-Port Repair
We diagnose iPhones that charge slowly, disconnect while charging, fail to recognise a cable or have a damaged or loose charging port.
Back-Glass Replacement
Cracked back glass can affect the appearance, protection and safe handling of an iPhone. We provide back-glass assessment and replacement for supported models.
Camera and Diagnostic Services
We can investigate camera faults, speaker problems, microphone issues, software problems and other common iPhone faults.
iCrack Merthyr also repairs Samsung phones, Google Pixel devices, Android phones, iPads, tablets, MacBooks, laptops, smartwatches and gaming consoles.
Will iCrack Merthyr Repair the iPhone 18 and iPhone Duo?
As newly launched devices reach customers, repair options will depend on technical information, replacement-part availability and the type of damage involved.
Customers experiencing a problem with an iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max or iPhone Duo can contact our team for an initial assessment. We will provide honest advice regarding available repair options before any work is approved.
Availability of repairs and replacement components for newly released devices may vary, particularly for specialist foldable displays and hinge assemblies.
Visit Your Local Phone Repair Shop in Merthyr
For professional phone repair in Merthyr Tydfil, visit:
iCrack Merthyr
5 Graham Way, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8EG
Opening hours
Monday to Saturday: 9:00am–5:30pm
Sunday: 10:00am–4:30pm
Walk-in customers are welcome, and free, no-obligation repair quotes are available before approved repair work begins.
Need Help With Your iPhone?
Whether you currently use an older iPhone or are planning to upgrade to the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max or foldable iPhone Duo, iCrack Merthyr is here to help with professional diagnostics and reliable repair advice.
Contact our team or visit our Merthyr Tydfil store to discuss your device, receive a repair quote or learn more about available screen, battery, back-glass and charging-port repair services.
