{
  "id": 16590512,
  "title": "Foldable iPhone sells out across iStores in SA on launch day",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/26/foldable-iphone-sells-out-across-istores-in-sa-on-launch-day",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-26T10:48:07.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ITWeb",
    "slug": "itweb",
    "url": "https://www.itweb.co.za/article/foldable-iphone-sells-out-across-istores-in-sa-on-launch-day/rxP3jqBEGd9MA2ye"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Apple's first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, saw out-of-stock levels at every South African iStore on launch day, according to CEO of iStore South Africa, Chris Dodd. Pre-orders had reportedly consumed most of the initial stock, leaving only a few units available for walk-in buyers during store openings. The Duo distinguishes itself through Apple's signature design, a titanium finish, rounded edges, and a folding display that provides a larger viewing area akin to an iPad Mini. Dodd explained that customers are excited about the phone's unique design, including the titanium finish, rounded edges, and the screen folding mechanism. The device's higher price point of R47,999 (256GB) and R76,999 (2TB) has not deterred demand, especially from the middle class. Analysts predict that the Duo's success will depend more on affordability and financing options than its novelty, as consumers may be willing to pay a premium for a foldable screen. The phone's high-end positioning is expected to limit its market reach to affluent users and those who qualify for financing schemes, despite South African's tight price sensitivity in the mobile market.",
  "summary": "Despite being priced up to R77 000, strong pre-orders propelled demand for the iPhone Duo, although affordability, repair costs and durability could constrain longer-term sales.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "404 Media",
        "title": "iPhone Duo Users Are Already Seeing a Big Old Crease in the Middle of Their $2,000 Foldable iPhone",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/26/iphone-duo-users-are-already-seeing-a-big-old-crease-in-the-middle-of",
        "published": "2026-10-26T16:10:30.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}