iPhone Duo sells out at SA iStores on launch day despite R77,000 price

Apple's iPhone Duo, its first foldable smartphone, sold out across all iStore locations in South Africa on its launch day Friday, driven by strong pre-orders despite prices reaching R77,000. iStore CEO Chris Dodd said most initial stock was allocated to pre-orders, with limited walk-in units selling out before stores opened. The device, starting at R47,999, features a titanium finish and dual-screen functionality, appealing to middle-class buyers upgrading after three-year cycles. Analysts expect demand to remain limited to affluent consumers due to affordability, repair costs, and durability concerns. The device competes on brand prestige rather than volume, with early adopters likely being existing premium iPhone owners rather than Android switchers.