Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max launched this week at $100 higher than last year's Pro models. Refurbished iPhone 17 Pro units cost nearly as much as new, while Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 foldables offer competitive features and discounts compared to the upcoming iPhone Duo.
Apple hardware VP Tom Marieb discussed the iPhone Duo's design, emphasizing that the matte nano-texture display minimizes crease visibility over time and asking customers to hold the company accountable. He highlighted the extensively engineered hinge, designed for durability and a premium feel across various folded and open positions.
Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 sales in Korea increased by 10% following Apple's iPhone Duo announcement. The Z Fold8 benefits from immediate availability, a significantly lower price in Korea (44% cheaper), and a thinner, lighter design compared to the iPhone Duo, which launches in late October.
Apple's iPhone Duo foldable launch unexpectedly boosted Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales in South Korea by around 10%, as consumers unconvinced by Apple's offering or deterred by the price difference (roughly $700 more in Korea) chose Samsung's alternative instead.
Apple's iPhone Duo debut prompted a 10% sales increase for Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 as consumers compared the two foldable phones. Factors influencing the decision included pricing differences, storage options, and the iPhone Duo's delayed October availability versus the Fold 8's immediate purchase option. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 was already highly popular, exceeding pre-order expectations and outselling competing Samsung models.
Apple's iPhone Duo foldable phone succeeds through design system scalability across iPhone, iPad, and Mac rather than hardware innovation alone. By arriving seven years late with a mature software ecosystem, most apps were already compatible before the device launched. The company solved the awkward cover-screen problem by relocating navigation to the right side, allowing a near-normal iPhone canvas without requiring developer changes.
Samsung is expanding its One UI 9.0 beta program to over 20 devices across multiple regions, including flagship, mid-range, and budget models. One UI 9.0, based on Android 17, introduces Galaxy AI enhancements like Now Nudge and My FanCam, improved accessibility features, and better iPhone-to-Galaxy migration via Smart Switch. A stable rollout is expected soon.
Apple launched a $1,999 foldable iPhone and raised prices on Pro models; Nvidia considered a $10 billion Anthropic investment; Oracle raised its fiscal 2027 outlook after $30 billion in AI cloud deals; Nokia and SpaceX advanced AI infrastructure ambitions.