Apple's iPhone Duo to Boost India Revenue, but Price Hikes May Cut Shipments

Apple's new iPhone Duo foldable smartphone, unveiled September 10, is expected to boost Apple's India revenue by 6-7 percent in 2026, but steep 20-30 percent price hikes across its portfolio will likely cause low single-digit shipment declines, according to analysts. The Duo, starting at Rs 2,99,900, is projected to capture 24 percent of India's foldable market in its launch quarter, with around 200,000 units sold in its first year. Pro series models, now 15 percent of the portfolio, will drive value growth, though initial Duo units face a 20 percent import duty as they won't be locally assembled. India's foldable smartphone market could double to 1.2 million units by 2027, with annual sales value rising from $1.1 billion to $2.2 billion. Analysts note price hikes, fueled by a weaker rupee and higher production costs, may dampen festive season demand, though trade-ins and refurbished sales could offset some impact.