Apple has finally introduced its long-awaited foldable smartphone to the market after years of anticipation. Given that Samsung pioneered and launched foldable phones seven years ago, the tech giant was quick to react on social media as Apple stepped into the same segment. Samsung was evidently well-prepared for this move and felt no surprise at the launch, choosing instead to welcome Apple to the market while simultaneously delivering a playful jab.
On September 9, Apple unveiled its maiden foldable device, the iPhone Duo. The product was showcased during an event held in Cupertino titled Surprise and Shine. The device features a 7.6-inch inner display alongside a 5.4-inch outer screen. It also includes support for the Apple Pencil, with the starting price in the Indian market set at approximately 2.99 lakh rupees. Pre-bookings for this new Apple handset are scheduled to kick off on October 16.
The US division of Samsung Mobile took to the social media platform X to comment on the new foldable iPhone. The company wrote a witty remark suggesting that once Apple finishes reheating their leftover ideas to serve to customers, they should let them know. Samsung even roped in the globally popular digital learning platform Duolingo, posting an apology for Apple allegedly copying them as well. Duolingo promptly reacted to this with humor, noting that Apple even named the phone after them by calling it the iPhone Duo.
Ahead of the Surprise and Shine event, Samsung had already put out a public welcome for the launch. The company shared a post on its Twitter handle reading Welcome to Foldables accompanied by a video message. A Samsung executive expressed immense pride in seeing Apple enter this arena, noting that the concept originally initiated by Samsung is now being widely validated and appreciated. Deliveries for the foldable iPhone are slated to commence on October 23.
Samsung previously introduced its new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 in 2026 with a starting price of 1.75 lakh rupees, whereas the iPhone Duo comes in at around 2.99 lakh rupees in India, making Apple's offering roughly 1.25 lakh rupees more expensive. Despite the higher cost, the iPhone brings distinct advantages such as brand trust and the robust iOS ecosystem. Powered by A20 Pro performance, it offers a signature software experience, premium build quality, strong resale value, and up to 2 TB of storage.
Consumers seeking a larger screen real estate might still find Samsung a compelling choice. Samsung offers an 8-inch inner screen compared to Apple's 7.6-inch display, along with a larger external screen. The presence of Android on Samsung devices expands its versatility and enhances multitasking capabilities. Currently, Samsung holds a 38 percent market share in the global foldable phone sector, presenting a formidable challenge for Apple as it enters the race.
