Apple’s $2,000 foldable iPhone launches amid strong demand
Key Points:
- Apple launched its first folding phone, the iPhone Duo, globally with a price around $2,000, seeing strong demand but less fanfare and fewer long queues compared to past iPhone releases.
- The iPhone Duo faces competition from established foldable models by Samsung and Huawei, serving as a test for Apple's ability to innovate in the foldable market under new CEO John Ternus.
- Pre-orders quickly sold out with delivery estimates slipping to late January, and Apple imposed purchase limits and walk-in restrictions to manage supply shortages.
- Early reviews praised the phone's design and hinge quality but noted drawbacks such as camera compromises and app optimization issues, with some reviewers hesitant to recommend it to average users.
- Market analysts predict Apple will capture a significant share of the foldable market by 2026-2027, potentially becoming the leader in both unit sales and market value, signaling a possible mainstream breakthrough for foldable devices.