Apple is projected to sell around six million units of its new foldable iPhone Duo this year, driven by strong demand and competitive pricing, according to Counterpoint Research. Priced at $1,999, the iPhone Duo is about $100 more than Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8. Tarun Pathak, research director at Counterpoint Research, noted, "Apple’s pricing was one of the most impressive parts of the launch," emphasizing that positioning the device just under the $2,000 mark is a bold strategy for a first-generation foldable. He suggested that demand among current iPhone Pro users and early adopters could be significant.
Read More
The estimate of six million units hinges on the speed of production ramp-up. The iPhone Duo was launched this month, with Apple's new CEO, John Ternus, praising its "thoughtful design" compared to existing products that resemble two phones attached side by side. Pre-orders for the device will commence on October 16 in the UAE, with the base model starting at Dh8,499 ($2,300) and higher storage options priced up to Dh13,600.
Pathak outlined ongoing challenges for foldables, including durability, crease visibility, hinge reliability, and battery life. He acknowledged that while Apple may not resolve these issues immediately, the company's scale and quality standards could compel suppliers to enhance engineering and production processes, potentially improving performance and cost in the long run.
The introduction of the iPhone Duo is expected to invigorate the foldable segment at a time when the overall smartphone market is experiencing a decline. IDC has forecast a 16.7 percent drop in global smartphone shipments in 2023, totaling just over one billion units, marking the industry's steepest annual fall.
Conversely, the foldables market is anticipated to expand by 12.6 percent by 2026, resulting in 22.9 million units sold, with an 18 percent growth expected next year. IDC stated that Apple's entry into the foldable market will convert a declining segment into the industry's fastest-growing area.
Counterpoint Research predicted that 2026 will mark a significant turning point for foldable smartphones, transitioning from a cyclical improvement to consistent growth. Pathak further commented that the future of foldables depends on enhancements in usability, design, durability, and consumer perception of their value.