Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Sales Surge Amid iPhone Duo Failures

Samsung Electronics reported a more than 20% increase in Galaxy Z Fold8 sales in South Korea between October 23 and 29, coinciding with the launch of Apple's first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo. This surge follows a 10% weekly increase in September after the iPhone Duo was first unveiled. In Europe, combined sales of the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra exceeded Z Fold7 sales by 45%.

The growth is attributed to a lower price point—starting at 2.28 million won compared to the iPhone Duo's 3.29 million won—and increased carrier subsidies from KT, SK Telecom, and LG Uplus. In the United States, retailers including Amazon and Best Buy have further reduced the Z Fold8 price to $1,599.99, a $300 discount.

Apple's launch has been marred by "crackgate," with users reporting cracks and bright lines on the iPhone Duo's inner display. Apple acknowledged the issue on October 26 and offered replacements. Apple CEO John Ternus stated that only a "very small percentage" of units were affected.

Samsung has capitalized on these failures through a marketing campaign in Canada featuring billboards with fake screen defects and the slogan, "Folding. We know a thing or eight." The company also extended its New AI Subscription Club through November and launched the "Galaxy End of the Year Fiesta" promotional campaign running until December 31.