iPhone Duo Could Become Apple’s Biggest Demand Driver, Analyst Predicts
Apple’s first foldable iPhone, reportedly called the iPhone Duo, could become one of the biggest demand drivers for the iPhone 18 lineup, according to analyst Jeff Pu. While Apple’s conventional...
Apple’s first foldable iPhone, reportedly called the iPhone Duo, could become one of the biggest demand drivers for the iPhone 18 lineup, according to analyst Jeff Pu.
While Apple’s conventional iPhone 18 Pro models have arrived with higher prices, Pu believes the foldable model could attract strong consumer interest because of its new design and large-screen experience.
iPhone 18 Pro Price Increase Was Lower Than Expected
Apple has increased the starting price of the iPhone 18 Pro by $100, bringing it to $1,199 in the United States.
However, the price hike was reportedly lower than market expectations. According to Pu’s analysis, investors had anticipated an increase of between $200 and $250.
The final $100 increase could ease some concerns surrounding the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. However, Pu remains cautious about demand for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, as well as the potential impact on Apple’s profit margins.
iPhone Duo Could Drive iPhone 18 Demand
The iPhone Duo is expected to start at $1,999, making it significantly more expensive than the conventional iPhone 18 Pro.
Despite the premium pricing, Pu estimates that Apple could ship approximately 7 million iPhone Duo units by the end of 2026.
The foldable iPhone could stand out because it introduces a new form factor rather than offering another incremental upgrade to the traditional iPhone design. Its larger display and foldable build may appeal to consumers looking for a different smartphone experience.
Pu reportedly expects the iPhone 18 family to receive support from the iPhone Duo during the second half of 2026, while demand for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max remains uncertain.
He also identified post-launch delivery timelines and changes in Apple’s supply-chain plans as important indicators of consumer demand.
Apple’s Production Plans Could Reveal Demand
Pu forecasts that Apple could build around 57 million iPhone 18-series devices during the fourth quarter of 2026. Total iPhone production during the period could reach approximately 76 million units.
These figures are analyst estimates and have not been confirmed by Apple. However, changes in production plans could offer clues about how well the new iPhone models are performing after launch.
If Apple increases production of the iPhone Duo or delivery times become longer, it could indicate that demand for the foldable model is stronger than initially expected.
iPhone Duo Has More to Prove After Launch
The iPhone Duo’s $1,999 starting price means Apple may not need to sell it in the same volumes as its conventional iPhone models for it to become commercially important.
The key question is whether early consumer interest will translate into sustained orders after the device becomes available.
The iPhone Duo is expected to be available for pre-order from October 16, with sales beginning on October 23. Its launch could mark one of Apple’s most significant design changes in years and may influence the overall performance of the iPhone 18 lineup.
iPhone Duo: Expected Details
| Feature | Expected detail |
|---|---|
| Product | iPhone Duo |
| Form factor | Foldable smartphone |
| Starting price | $1,999 |
| Estimated 2026 shipments | Around 7 million units |
| Pre-orders | October 16 |
| Availability | October 23 |
| Main attraction | Large-screen foldable design |
Source: Analyst Jeff Pu’s estimates, as reported by 9to5Mac.
FAQs
What is the expected price of the iPhone Duo?
The iPhone Duo is expected to start at $1,999 in the United States.
How many iPhone Duo units could Apple ship in 2026?
Analyst Jeff Pu estimates that Apple could ship around 7 million units by the end of 2026.
When could the iPhone Duo go on sale?
The iPhone Duo is expected to become available on October 23, with pre-orders reportedly beginning October 16.
