Samsung Fold 8 Sales Rise After Apple iPhone Duo Debut

Sales of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 increased by approximately 10 percent in South Korea during the week following the September 9 unveiling of the iPhone Duo, the first foldable smartphone from Samsung Electronics competitor Apple Inc.

Industry analysts and reports from The Chosun and Maeil Business Newspaper indicate that consumers who delayed purchases to evaluate Apple's offering ultimately chose the Samsung device. This trend was driven by the Galaxy Z Fold 8's immediate availability, thinner and lighter design, and significantly lower price point. In South Korea, the 256GB Galaxy Z Fold 8 is priced at 2.28 million won, while the 256GB iPhone Duo costs 3.29 million won. The price gap is narrower in the United States, where the difference is approximately $100.

While the iPhone Duo was debuted in early September, it is not scheduled to launch in South Korea until October 16. Despite Apple's entry into the market, Counterpoint Research projects Samsung will maintain a 38% share of the foldable market by the end of 2026, compared to a projected 25% for Apple. Market observers note that Apple's debut has increased overall consumer interest in foldable technology, which has inadvertently benefited Samsung's existing product line.