Apple’s arrival in the foldable phone market was widely expected to create more competition for Samsung, but early figures suggest the Galaxy Z Fold 8 may actually be benefiting from the attention. Recent sales data from South Korea shows that Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales climbed 10% week over week after Apple introduced the iPhone Duo.
The development is notable because the iPhone Duo represents one of the newest direct competitors to Samsung in the foldable category. Rather than causing an immediate decline in demand for the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Apple’s announcement may have prompted consumers who were still undecided to compare Samsung’s device more closely.
Price Gives Samsung a Clear Advantage
Pricing could be one of the biggest factors behind the difference in consumer interest. In South Korea, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 reportedly starts at approximately 2.28 million won, or around $1,550. The iPhone Duo, meanwhile, is expected to start at 3.29 million won, equivalent to roughly $2,390.
That creates a price difference of about 1.01 million won, or approximately $840. For customers deciding between two premium foldable devices, such a large gap could have a significant influence on the purchasing decision.
Samsung also has the advantage of availability in South Korea. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is already on sale, while Apple’s iPhone Duo is scheduled to reach the South Korean market on October 16.
The Fold 8 is also reportedly slimmer and lighter than the iPhone Duo, which could make Samsung’s phone more appealing to users who place a high value on portability.
Apple May Have Helped Samsung
The 10% rise in sales does not necessarily mean that people who considered buying the iPhone Duo switched to the Galaxy Z Fold 8. However, the timing of the increase is difficult to overlook.
Apple’s announcement gave potential buyers more information about its foldable offering, including its design, pricing, and release date. After seeing those details, some consumers may have concluded that Samsung’s device offered a better balance of features and price.
Apple’s entry into a new smartphone category does not automatically translate into lost customers for existing manufacturers. Greater competition can also bring more attention to the category and encourage shoppers to compare available devices before making a purchase.
Two Foldables Can Succeed
The South Korean sales figures represent only one market, so they should not yet be viewed as proof of a broader worldwide trend. Even so, the numbers indicate that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 continues to attract buyers despite Apple entering the foldable market.
Samsung’s ongoing promotional offers could also help maintain demand as the two companies compete for premium smartphone customers.
If both the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and iPhone Duo gain strong traction internationally, Apple’s arrival could end up growing the overall foldable smartphone market instead of simply taking customers away from Samsung.
(via)
