Apple Launches the iPhone Duo to Test the Foldable Device Market

Apple officially launched its first-ever foldable device, the iPhone Duo, on Friday, marking a major entry into the small foldables sector. The release serves as an early test for John Ternus, who recently assumed the role of CEO in September and unveiled the phone just days after taking charge.

The launch presents a challenge to competitors such as Samsung Electronics and Huawei Technologies, which have maintained a dominant presence in the premium foldable category for years. Consumer demand appeared strong immediately, with pre-orders causing delivery timelines to extend rapidly into late January. Apple described the initial customer enthusiasm as extraordinary.

Eager buyers formed orderly lines outside Apple stores globally ahead of opening hours. In Sydney, engineer Simon Krishnan purchased a 512GB model for A$3,899, calling it a luxury purchase while noting that life is short. In Shanghai, healthcare professional Liu Wei lined up early after previously using a competitor's foldable device, stating that long-term trust in the brand motivated a launch-day purchase.

Market conditions varied by region during the rollout. While Apple has seen a rebound in market share in China despite a sluggish consumer landscape and rising memory costs, some buyers saw financial opportunities elsewhere. In Hong Kong, a buyer named May secured a 256GB model online for HK$17,499 with the intention of reselling it for a profit.

Despite the high enthusiasm, limited inventory is expected to impact physical retail availability. Apple announced that walk-in stock will vary significantly by region, with heavily constrained supplies reported in the United States, Australia, Canada, Mexico, and parts of Britain and Europe.

Additionally, walk-in purchases will not be an option everywhere. In locations such as Hong Kong, the Chinese mainland, France, India, and Japan, devices will be strictly restricted to customers who completed online orders in advance.