Apple's First Foldable iPhone Duo: A ‘Blockbuster Hit’ or ‘Early Production Bottleneck’?
Apple has officially launched its first foldable smartphone, the ‘iPhone Duo,' engaging in a head-to-head competition with Samsung Electronics’ ‘Galaxy Z Fold 8’ in the foldable phone market. With sales beginning in more than 70 countries including South Korea and the United States, waiting lines to
Apple made its debut in the foldable phone market with the launch of its first foldable smartphone, the 'iPhone Duo', competing directly with Samsung's 'Galaxy Z Fold 8'. The product's introduction caused a surge in demand, resulting in long queues at stores across numerous countries, including South Korea and the United States. Initial stock availability was quickly exhausted, leading to backorders for carriers and increased prices on second-hand markets.
Bank of America's analysis revealed that the global average wait time for delivery is 82 days, and second-hand platforms showcased the 'iPhone Duo' with a premium of 910,000 won ($687) added to the base price of 3,590,000 won. Although this scarcity might indicate a successful launch, the complexity of its design suggests a potential early production bottleneck.
Both models feature a passport-type design, but the iPhone Duo is slightly thinner and lighter than the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Its screen sizes are similar, though the Galaxy Z Fold 8 has a marginally larger internal display.
The iPhone Duo's premium A20 Pro chip and unique nano-texture finish set it apart from competitors, despite its higher price point and repair costs. Counterpoint Research predicts global foldable phone shipments will rise by 37% next year, with Apple's 6 million units shipment volume projected to secure second place in the market, following Samsung's 38% share.
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