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Apple launches first foldable smartphone iPhoneDuo, starting at 15,999 yuan
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On September 10, 2026, Apple officially launched its first foldable smartphone, the iPhoneDuo, with a starting price of 15,999 yuan in China and a 7.6-inch unfolded display. This marks Apple's completion of its full iPhone form-factor lineup. According to the article citing industry data, global foldable phone shipments are projected to rise from 9.1 million units in 2021 to 101.5 million units by 2027, a more than 11-fold increase over seven years, indicating the sector is entering a phase of rapid adoption. Recent research reports cited in the article argue that Apple's entry is not a catch-up move but a strategic positioning at the inflection point where foldables transition from a high-end niche to mass-market adoption. The reports suggest the iPhoneDuo will force accelerated upgrades across core supply chain components such as hinge design, UTG glass, and flexible OLED displays, allowing leading Chinese suppliers to potentially gain both market share and pricing power by joining Apple's supply chain. The article further notes that the competitive logic in the industry has shifted from 'specification wars' to a comprehensive contest of ecosystem, user experience, and standards, and that Apple's involvement will hasten the elimination of smaller manufacturers with insufficient technological reserves, while strengthening the outlook for top-tier supply chain companies over the medium to long term.
Source report
Date: September 24, 2026 16:16:56 | Source: CFi.CN
Apple officially launched its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, on September 10 at 10:00 AM Beijing time. The device, priced at RMB 15,999 for the base model in China, features a 7.6-inch unfolded display, marking Apple's completion of its full iPhone form-factor lineup.
Market Growth and Timing
Industry data shows that global foldable smartphone shipments are projected to surge from 9.1 million units in 2021 to 101.5 million units by 2027 — a more than 11-fold increase over seven years. The sector is entering a phase of rapid mass adoption.
According to recent institutional research reports, Apple's entry is not a late-stage pursuit but a strategic move to capture the critical window when foldables transition from a niche high-end segment to mainstream popularity.
Supply Chain Impact
The research suggests that the iPhone Duo will accelerate upgrades across key supply chain components, including:
- Device design and assembly
- Hinges
- UTG (Ultra-Thin Glass)
- Flexible OLED displays
Domestic Chinese leaders in these areas are expected to gain access to Apple's supply chain, potentially securing both higher market share and stronger pricing power.
Competitive Landscape Shift
The report notes that the competitive logic in the foldable market has shifted from "specification wars" to a comprehensive battle of ecosystem, user experience, and standards. Apple's entry will likely accelerate the elimination of smaller manufacturers with insufficient technological reserves. In contrast, leading supply chain companies are expected to see increased certainty and expanded long-term growth potential.
Source
中财网-期货Neutral / independent
Part of this Story
Apple Launches iPhone Duo Foldable, Triggering Industry Consolidation Race