Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 Sees Sales Surge Following Apple’s iPhone Duo Reveal
In the wake of Apple’s unveiling of its inaugural foldable smartphone, the ‘iPhone Duo,’ sales for Samsung Electronics’ flagship ‘Galaxy Z Fold 8’ have observed an uptick of approximately 10%.
This trend signals a shifting consumer preference toward the Fold 8, largely attributable to the iPhone Duo’s exorbitant initial price point, commencing around 3 million won (approximately $2,170), alongside its lackluster hardware specifications and a lengthy waiting period prior to domestic availability.
Industry experts allege that Samsung, having pioneered the foldable phone sector seven years prior, is adeptly showcasing its enduring market prowess.
As reported by the telecommunications sector on September 17, sales of the Fold 8 surged by about 10% in the week subsequent to the iPhone Duo’s launch, compared to the preceding week.
On September 9 (local time), Apple introduced its ‘foldable iPhone,’ designed in a ‘book-type’ manner that unfolds horizontally.
The product garnered significant attention, being the first foldable smartphone released by Apple since the iconic iPhone was launched 19 years ago in 2007.
However, consumer sentiment reflects disillusionment following the revelation of the iPhone Duo’s pricing and specifications, prompting many to gravitate toward the well-established alternative, the Fold 8.
The Duo debuts at a domestic launch price of 3.29 million won for the 256GB variant, escalating to 5.09 million won for the 2TB configuration, while its heft of 254 grams marks it as the heaviest iPhone to date.
Conversely, the Fold 8 starts at a launch price of 2,278,100 won for the 256GB model, presenting a price advantage exceeding 1 million won while being 53 grams lighter compared to its iPhone Duo counterpart.
Furthermore, the iPhone Duo is slated for domestic release between late October and early November, imposing a waiting period of more than a month.
Notwithstanding these factors, Apple’s robust base of fervent customers suggests that the real contest for market dominance between the two tech giants will commence upon the official launch of the iPhone Duo.
An industry insider remarked, “While the Fold 8 embodies Samsung Electronics’ enhancement of its foldable technology amassed over seven years, the iPhone Duo represents Apple’s intent to penetrate the market with a novel form factor.”
They further noted, “Given the distinctive technological philosophies of both companies, their respective strengths and vulnerabilities are being sharply delineated.”
The industry forecasts that this rivalry could potentially invigorate growth in a stagnant smartphone marketplace.
In a strategic response, Samsung Electronics has been vocally countering Apple’s new product launch through its official channels.
On the day the iPhone Duo was revealed, Samsung quipped via social media, “Let us know when you are finished reheating the food we left behind.”
Furthermore, when Rose, a member of the popular group ‘Blackpink,’ shared an image featuring an ‘iPhone 18 Pro’ on Apple’s official platforms, Samsung replied, “If you needed a real phone, you should have asked us.”
Source link: Businesskorea.co.kr.
