In-Depth Analysis of the Apple Foldable iPhone Duo: A “High-Price Ticket” That’s Been Delayed for Seven Years – Is It Worth It?
Hello everyone, I’m your financial journalist.
In the early hours of September 10th, Beijing time, the “big news” that fans around the world have been waiting for seven years finally arrived: Apple’s first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, was officially unveiled.
To be honest, my first reaction upon seeing the launch wasn’t “Wow, Apple’s finally made a foldable phone,” but rather a sense of concern: “Starting from 15,999 yuan, with the top-of-the-line model costing 26,499 yuan? That’s 5,000 yuan more than the same-capacity iPhone 18 Pro Max.”
It’s like going to a restaurant and the owner saying, “We’ve finally added a new dish, but it’s 500 yuan more than the one next door, and it also lacks a few ingredients.” Would you still place your order?
Today, let’s put aside all the technical jargon and break down this decision in plain language to see if that extra 5,000 yuan is really worth it, and whether Apple is “making a cake” or “grabbing a piece of the cake.”
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1. The 5,000 Yuan Difference: Not an “Upgrade,” but a “Compromise”
Let’s do some math. When you spend an extra 5,000 yuan, you usually expect a “comprehensive improvement.” However, with the iPhone Duo, Apple hasn’t provided that; instead, there are some obvious “subtractions.”
1. The Reduction in the Imaging System
This is the most disappointing aspect. The previous iPhone Pro series was known for its dedicated telephoto lens, which was great for taking long-distance shots and creating bokeh effects in portraits. But the Duo doesn’t have a dedicated telephoto lens, nor does it have a variable aperture. The so-called “2x optical zoom” is actually achieved by cropping the main camera image.
In simple terms: With a more expensive phone, the clarity of your distant landscape shots might not even match that of the cheaper Pro Max. For photography enthusiasts, this extra cost feels somewhat unjustified.
2. The Reality of Weight and Fold Marks
Apple claims this is the “thinnest iPhone” yet, measuring 5.2 millimeters when unfolded. Sounds impressive, right? But when folded, it’s 11.3 millimeters thick and weighs 254 grams.
In simple terms: That weight is equivalent to holding two and a half bricks in your hand. Although Apple uses nanotexture and special materials to reduce fold marks, their official statement is only that they “minimize” them, not promise “zero fold marks.”
Foldable screen technology is still struggling with physical limitations. Despite Apple’s advanced manufacturing, these issues cannot be completely avoided. Will the fold marks deepen after a year of use? Will the screen wear out? Apple doesn’t guarantee these aspects.
**3. Functional “Downgrades”
The lack of Face ID and the switch to side fingerprint recognition is a step backward in Apple’s product lineup. Additionally, support for the Apple Pencil will be available later on.
In summary: You’re paying the price of a flagship phone for a “slimmer” version of a foldable screen, not a “fully capable” one. Apple’s argument is that the focus of foldable screens is their form factor, not just the number of features. But consumers might wonder, “If I’m paying more, why should the specifications be less?”
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2. The Real Selling Points: Not Just a Bigger Screen, but the “iOS Ecosystem”
If we focus only on hardware specs, the iPhone Duo doesn’t have an advantage. So why does Apple charge so much? It’s not about the hardware; it’s about “you can’t live without me.”
1. A Way for Those Who Want to Try Something New Without Changing Their System
Previously, if you wanted a foldable phone, you had two options: either tolerate the fragmentation of the Android system or miss out on Apple-exclusive features like iMessage, AirDrop, and seamless integration with Macs and iPads.
With the Duo, “die-hard Apple fans” can experience foldable technology without switching to Android.
In simple terms: It’s like you’re used to Starbucks and suddenly they release a new flavor of coffee that’s more expensive than Luckin’s, but you can still use your existing membership points. This seamless experience is something Android manufacturers can’t offer.
2. The Strength of the Software Ecosystem
Apple’s strength lies in building an ecosystem. iOS 27 has been redesigned for foldable screens, supporting dual apps running side by side and split-screen operations.
In simple terms: Before, switching between apps on your phone was cumbersome. Now, you can check information on one screen and reply to messages on another, just like on an iPad.
While Android also supports split-screen, not all apps work well in this mode. Apple’s app store has strict review processes, ensuring a more consistent and stable experience.
The key point: Apple is selling not just a foldable screen but a “foldable iOS system.” For users who rely heavily on the Apple ecosystem, the value of this system far exceeds the hardware.
3. The Convenience of Dual Screens
Split-screen functionality might not be groundbreaking, but some features are very practical:
- Selfie Helper: The outer screen allows you to preview the composition and play animations to distract children while taking photos.
- Desktop Stand: When half-folded, you can use it as a stand for video calls or watching videos without holding it.
These features may not seem exciting, but they make the foldable screen more practical, turning it from a novelty into a useful tool.
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3. Market Competition: Is Apple “Making a Cake” or “Grabbing a Piece of the Cake”?
Apple’s entry into the foldable market brings mixed feelings for competitors like Samsung, Huawei, and Xiaomi.
1. Positive: Apple Helps Educate Users
In the past few years, Chinese manufacturers have spent a lot to convince consumers that foldable screens are more than just toys; they’re tools for productivity. With Apple’s presence, its brand influence and distribution channels will attract more people to consider foldable phones.
In simple terms: Apple has amplified the attention to this technology, expanding the market potential.
2. Negative: Apple Could Take the Biggest Share
IDC predicts that by the end of 2027, Apple could hold 40% of the foldable market share. This means that users who were hesitant to switch from Android to a foldable phone due to compatibility issues might now be attracted by Apple’s offerings.
The Price Factor: Huawei and Xiaomi priced their foldable phones at 10,999 yuan before Apple’s release. When consumers see the higher price of the iPhone Duo, they might think, “Oh, so foldable phones are just at this price; the Chinese ones are cheaper by 5,000 yuan.” Apple’s higher price could actually help these manufacturers establish a reputation for better value.
3. Market Predictions
- Optimists (Counterpoint): Expect Apple to drive market growth, with global foldable shipments exceeding 100 million units by 2026.
- Cautionists (IDC): The Chinese market could see a 26.7% decline due to intense competition from Chinese manufacturers and Apple’s higher prices.
My opinion: Apple will attract attention, but it may not immediately boost sales for all manufacturers. The foldable market is still niche and high-end; it’s a long way from becoming mainstream. Apple’s entry will intensify competition but won’t trigger a sudden surge.
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4. Buying Advice for Consumers
Who Should Buy?
- Heavy iOS Users: If you rely on iMessage, AirDrop, and Apple Watch integration and want to try a foldable phone, the Duo is the best choice with the most complete experience.
- Business Professionals: Those who frequently work with documents and emails, needing dual screens for efficiency, and value Apple’s security and privacy features.
- Those with Extra Budget and a Pursuit of Premium Experience: You can afford the extra cost for the latest technology and the most seamless experience.
Who Should Wait?
- Value-Sensitive Consumers: Huawei and Xiaomi’s foldable phones offer better specs (telephoto lenses, fast charging, lighter weights) at a lower price.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The lack of a telephoto lens is a significant downside for photo lovers.
- Concerned About Fold Marks: Despite Apple’s advanced manufacturing, foldable screens will develop fold marks over time. If you’re sensitive to this, it’s better to wait for further technological improvements.
- eSIM Users: Note that the Duo uses only eSIM and doesn’t have a physical SIM slot. If your carrier’s eSIM process is complicated or you prefer dual SIM cards, this might be a downside.
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5. Conclusion: The New CEO’s First Test Case
For the newly appointed Apple CEO John Ternus, the iPhone Duo is his first major product release.
It’s not perfect and somewhat conservative in terms of hardware. However, it targets Apple’s core strength: its ecosystem. Instead of competing in hardware, Apple uses its ecosystem to attract its most loyal users.
Whether the Duo can replicate the success of the乔布斯-era Apple depends not on how thin or expensive it is, but on whether users will continue to value it after a year of use.
If most people only use the phone occasionally, it’ll be an expensive luxury. But if they truly benefit from the dual-screen functionality, it could become a new standard for productivity.
In closing:
If you love Apple, the Duo is worth considering. If you’re more concerned about value for money, Chinese foldable phones offer a better option. Don’t buy just because of the Apple brand; buy what meets your needs.