Apple's $1,999 Foldable iPhone Duo May Appeal Only to Wealthy Buyers
Apple launched its foldable iPhone Duo on Wednesday starting at $1,999, but analysts question its appeal beyond wealthy tech enthusiasts due to its high price and unclear target audience. The device accounts for less than 3% of the global smartphone market in 2026. Apple executives showcased the iPhone Duo running apps like Zoom and Netflix, with CEO John Ternus positioning it as a personal AI hub. Analysts note Apple avoided defining the buyer, unlike past product launches, though brand loyalty should drive strong initial sales. Foldable phones have struggled to attract buyers beyond a niche since Samsung's 2019 debut, with IDC expecting minimal market share growth through 2027. Analysts estimate Apple could sell 6 million units by year-end, giving it a quarter of the global foldable market.