Apple’s first foldable iPhone is reportedly attracting more preorders than expected across several major markets, raising hopes that its arrival could accelerate growth across the foldable smartphone industry.
Early supply chain reports suggest demand for the $1,999 iPhone Duo has exceeded Apple’s initial projections, despite significant inventory shortages as the device goes on sale in stores today, October 23.
The stronger-than-expected response is drawing attention from display component manufacturers, which see Apple’s entry into the foldable market as an opportunity to expand production.
Why the iPhone Duo’s Success Matters Beyond Apple
The Duo features a 5.4-inch outer display and a 7.6-inch folding screen, both of which require specialized components to accommodate its thin design.
One technology attracting particular interest is OLED TDDI, which combines touchscreen sensing and display control into a single chip.
These components are especially important for foldable devices, where manufacturers must fit sophisticated display hardware into increasingly compact designs.
However, high production costs have limited broader adoption in conventional flagship smartphones.
Suppliers now expect Apple’s entry to encourage competing manufacturers to invest more heavily in foldables, potentially increasing demand for the technology.
That would give display manufacturers a welcome boost as they face weaker consumer demand in the second half of 2026.
Strong Demand Comes With Supply Problems
The iPhone Duo‘s early popularity could also help offset softer-than-expected demand for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, which reportedly experienced a relatively muted preorder period.
However, Apple’s biggest challenge may be getting enough foldable devices into customers’ hands.
Preorders quickly pushed delivery estimates well beyond the initial release date, and Apple Store employees were reportedly instructed to discourage walk-in purchases because inventory was extremely limited.
For now, the iPhone Duo’s stronger-than-expected preorder performance offers an encouraging early signal, even as limited availability makes it difficult to judge how demand will translate into sustained sales.
