Introduction

The launch of Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, has generated considerable excitement in China. Notwithstanding its steep price, initial consumer response appears overwhelmingly positive, particularly evident during its recent global unveiling.

Consumer Interest and Scalping Activity

On the launch day, which coincided with a global event, enthusiastic customers lined up outside the Apple flagship store in Beijing’s Sanlitun district. Notably, some individuals, like scalper Alex Wang, were offering up to 3,000 Chinese yuan (approximately $448) to buyers willing to sell their newly-acquired devices on the spot.

“I feel the Duo can be sold with a higher price for half a month,” Wang stated, citing limited availability as a key factor driving demand.

According to research from Counterpoint, although foldable devices remain a niche in the global market, China represents the largest segment for such products.

Early Adopters

Among the eager consumers was Mary Tong, who arrived at the store by 6 a.m. to secure her iPhone Duo. Tong remarked on Apple’s previous delays in entering the foldable market, suggesting a growing preference for these devices among Chinese consumers.

“Apple has been the laggard,” she remarked. “I think many Chinese do prefer foldable phones.”

Market Competition

In response to Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market, competitors such as Huawei and Xiaomi have been expanding their offerings. Huawei recently launched the Mate XT2, a trifold device priced around $3,000, just days before the iPhone Duo announcement. Similarly, Xiaomi introduced the 18 Fold, further elevating the competitive landscape.

Despite Apple’s efforts, the anticipation surrounding the iPhone Duo was palpable, resulting in customers arriving early at the Sanlitun store, hoping to procure a device despite the company’s policy of limiting sales to online pre-orders and restricting walk-in purchases.

Customer Intentions and AI Developments

Potential buyers were keen to secure their devices, with individuals like Zhang Zheng expressing frustration over delivery timelines that extended as far as January 2027. Nevertheless, Zhang remained optimistic about the potential benefits of the iPhone Duo for professional use.

“I think it will be useful for work and it’s cool to look at,” he added.

Although excitement is palpable regarding the iPhone Duo, expectations for Apple’s latest AI initiatives, Apple Intelligence, remain lukewarm. This system is anticipated to enter beta testing soon, with features such as live translation and photo enhancements planned for release soon after regulatory approvals in China. Nevertheless, users like John Zhao, who tested the system abroad, indicated that while it was helpful, it was not groundbreaking.

“It was nice but not beyond imagination,” Zhao said, expressing skepticism about the anticipated Chinese version’s allure.

Conclusion

As Apple continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the Chinese market, the iPhone Duo launch marks a significant step forward—an indication of the company’s determination to captivate one of the world’s largest consumer bases for smartphones.