Apple releases first foldable iPhone Duo to high demand

Apple has launched its first foldable smartphone, the ‘iPhone Duo,’ competing with Samsung Electronics’ ‘Galaxy Z Fold 8’ in the foldable phone market.Sales began in over 70 countries, including South Korea and the U.S., with long waiting lines evident at stores like the Myeongdong branch in Seoul.

However, pre-orders quickly sold out, leading to a supply shortage, with delivery dates pushed back to January next year.

Bank of America reports that the global delivery waiting period averages 82 days, with the 512GB iPhone Duo listed at a premium of 910,000 won (about $687) on second-hand platforms.

Market concerns

Industry experts believe the early scarcity may not indicate a strong demand but could result from production bottlenecks due to the iPhone Duo’s complex design.

Both models feature a passport-type design, with the iPhone Duo having a 7.6-inch internal display and a 5.4-inch external screen, compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 8’s 7.6-inch internal and 5.5-inch external displays.

The iPhone Duo is thicker and heavier than the Galaxy Z Fold 8, which is thinner and lighter.

The iPhone Duo’s price establishes it as the most expensive iPhone ever, with the base 256GB model priced at 3,290,000 won, significantly higher than the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

Repair costs for the iPhone Duo are also high, posing an additional financial challenge for consumers.

Counterpoint Research predicts that global foldable phone shipments will rise by 37% next year as a result of Apple’s entrance into the market.

Apple is projected to achieve up to 6 million units in shipments this year, capturing a 25% market share, following Samsung Electronics, which holds 38%.

The competition in the premium phone market is expected to intensify, further driving growth in the foldable segment.