Apple has released Xcode 27.1 beta 1 for developers. This version specifically enables app development that targets the new foldable iPhone Duo.

While iPhone Duo doesn’t launch until October, today’s Xcode release gives developers a chance to prepare for initial iPhone Duo support.

Properly optimizing most apps for iPhone Duo will probably take more than a few weeks for most apps. However, Xcode 27.1 meets Apple’s promise to release dev tools before the end of September.

Apps built against Apple’s iOS 26 SDK will need to be updated for iOS 27 for basic iPhone Duo support.

Apps made for iOS 27.1 and later will take full advantage of the larger display. Still, there are a lot of sizing and layout considerations that developers need to consider when shipping proper app support.

While the device isn’t out yet, Xcode 27.1 beta also gives developers the chance to virtually experience their apps on the iPhone Duo simulator.

Xcode 27.1 beta is available to download from Apple’s developer webpage here.

The release follows the introduction of Xcode 27.2 beta earlier this week. Apple is shipping iOS 27.2 as the next software update for iPhones running iOS 27.0 with the exception of the iPhone Duo.

It will run iOS 27.1, a version designed for the foldable device, before syncing up with the rest of the iPhone lineup in a later version.

iPhone Duo will be available for pre-order on October 16 and ships October 23. Pricing starts at $1999.

Related Stories:

• Here’s how iPhone Duo treats apps not optimized for the foldable display
• The race to build great iPhone Duo apps is about to begin
• iPhone Duo videos reveal split keyboard, app multitasking, more
• Apple launches iPhone Duo developer resources ahead of October release