Surprise! Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales rise after iPhone Duo launch

Apple recently launched the iPhone Duo, marking its first entry into the foldable smartphone market. The announcement of the Duo was ideally supposed to disrupt Samsung’s sales of its Galaxy Z Fold 8; however, that has not been the case in its home market.

Instead of slowing down Samsung’s sales, the announcement triggered a direct increase in demand for the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Retail data from South Korea indicates that Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales rose by 10 percent in the week following the September 9 unveiling of the iPhone Duo.

Pricing remains a primary factor driving this consumer shift. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 starts at approximately $1,550, while the iPhone Duo enters the market at a starting price of $1,999 in the US and roughly $2,390 in South Korea. This substantial price gap pushes undecided buyers toward Samsung as a more practical financial choice for a premium foldable device.

Market availability also gives Samsung an immediate advantage. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is currently available for purchase and features a thinner and lighter chassis compared to the new Apple device. Meanwhile, the iPhone Duo is scheduled for retail release on October 23. Consumers comparing the two devices are opting for the immediate availability and established physical profile of the Fold 8.

Apple's entry into the foldable segment has increased overall visibility for the category. By providing a direct point of comparison, Apple has inadvertently highlighted the hardware and pricing position of the Galaxy Z Fold 8. If both devices perform well globally, the foldable market will likely expand rather than consolidate around a single manufacturer.