Apple's iPhone Duo Could Make Foldables Dominate Phone Sales Within A Decade: Report

Apple's newly revealed iPhone Duo could lead foldable smartphones to dominate the market within a decade, according to a report from analyst Mark Gurman. In his September 13 Power On newsletter, Gurman predicted that foldables will grow from a small niche into the largest segment of new phone sales within the next ten years, with the Duo as the catalyst.

Currently, foldables account for only about 2 percent of global smartphone shipments, but Gurman believes they have the potential to become the go-to device for many users, much like the original iPhone did for smartphones nearly two decades ago. The Duo's design is a key factor in Gurman's prediction, as it combines refined hardware with specific use cases such as video, gaming, and photography, as well as StandBy widgets and FaceTime functionality when unfolded.

Despite the high price point and lack of Face ID, market interest in the Duo has been strong, and Apple's international Upgrade leasing program and emphasis on monthly payment figures may help ease the cost barrier over time. While the Duo's immediate impact on the market is uncertain, Gurman argues that the device could spark increased competition and production volume among Android manufacturers, eventually driving down costs and making foldables more accessible to consumers.