The presentation of the new iPhones failed to generate much enthusiasm on Wall Street. Early reviews of the foldable iPhone Duo also highlighted a number of compromises — from its $1,999 price and weaker camera system to questions about the durability of the flexible display.
Western media outlets, including MarketWatch, have reported on the reaction.
Shortly after Apple’s annual presentation ended, its shares were trading about 1% lower. At the same time, MarketWatch noted that such a reaction is not unusual for the company: according to Dow Jones Market Data, Apple shares fall by an average of 0.31% on the day new iPhones are unveiled.
By the end of the trading day, the decline had narrowed to about 0.3%. The Wall Street Journal also noted that the new foldable iPhone failed to give the company’s shares an immediate boost.
One of the main topics after the presentation was the specifications of Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo. Its base 256GB version costs $1,999, while the 2TB model is priced at $3,199.
Ars Technica points out that even at that price, the Duo’s camera system is inferior to the iPhone 18 Pro. The smartphone has only two main cameras, while its zoom capabilities are limited compared with the Pro models.
The Verge also drew attention to the camera system. Some members of its editorial team positively assessed the device’s form factor, large internal display and Apple Pencil support, but the $1,999 price was among the main criticisms.
Another issue is the durability of the flexible display. In early hands-on reviews, the crease in the screen is described as barely noticeable, but journalists note that it is still impossible to assess how the display will perform after prolonged use and repeated folding.
The Wall Street Journal also drew attention to the device’s size. According to the publication, the iPhone Duo is thicker and heavier than the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Google Pixel Fold, which could make it less convenient to use with one hand.
Another feature is the absence of Face ID. The iPhone Duo uses Touch ID in the side button for unlocking. In addition, the smartphone works only with eSIM.
Pre-orders for the iPhone Duo are expected to begin on October 16, with sales starting on October 23. Only after sales begin will it become clear how much interest in the first foldable iPhone translates into actual demand.
