iPhone Duo: Scalpers Demand High Prices

On Friday, October 16, 2026, pre-orders for the iPhone Duo, Apple's first foldable smartphone, began. Within minutes, the devices were sold out, leading to high demand and a spike in prices on the secondary market. Buyers looking to acquire the device anew will have to wait until the end of January 2027 to receive one. Scalpers are taking advantage of the situation and offering the iPhone Duo on platforms like eBay.

Prices there range from €5,000 to €5,530, representing a markup of 25 to 32 percent compared to the original price. Particularly, the version with 2 terabytes of storage is highly sought after by buyers. The high demand for the iPhone Duo is not surprising, as Apple enters the foldable smartphone market with this model. Analysts expect that the device could set new standards in the industry. The combination of innovative design and Apple's established ecosystem attracts many tech enthusiasts.

Sales figures for the iPhone Duo could surpass those of previous iPhone models. Apple has shown in the past that new products are often sold out quickly, especially when equipped with new technologies. The launch of the iPhone Duo could also impact the sales figures of other Apple products. Consumer reactions to the iPhone Duo are mixed. While many praise the innovation and design, some express concerns about pricing and availability.

The high prices on the secondary market could deter some potential buyers who prefer to wait for regular availability. Apple has not yet commented on the high prices in the secondary market. However, the company may take measures to increase availability and counteract scalpers. In the past, Apple has attempted to regulate the resale market to stabilize prices. The introduction of the iPhone Duo could also have implications for competitors in the smartphone market.

Manufacturers like Samsung and Huawei, which already offer foldable smartphones, may need to adjust their strategies to keep pace with Apple's new offering. Analysts are closely monitoring developments to assess competitor reactions. Initial reports about the iPhone Duo indicate that the user interface and features of the device are well-received. Users report smooth operation and high build quality. The combination of hardware and software seems to meet consumer expectations.

The launch of the iPhone Duo could also ignite discussions about the sustainability of smartphones. Consumers and environmental advocates are increasingly demanding eco-friendly practices in the production and distribution of electronic devices. Apple has previously initiated efforts to reduce its ecological footprint, which could also be significant during the launch of the iPhone Duo. The first deliveries of the iPhone Duo are scheduled for late January 2027. Apple has announced that production of the device will be ramped up in the coming months to meet demand.

However, the exact number of devices produced remains unclear. The high demand and associated price increases in the secondary market could also rekindle discussions about the pricing of premium smartphones. Consumers are increasingly willing to pay high prices for innovative products, which could further influence Apple's market strategy. The first buyers of the iPhone Duo have already shared their experiences on social media. Many express enthusiasm for the new features and design of the device.

The response to the iPhone Duo could be crucial for the long-term success of the model. Apple has demonstrated in the past that it can set trends and influence the market. The launch of the iPhone Duo could be another step in this direction, especially regarding the growing demand for foldable smartphones. Initial sales figures for the iPhone Duo are expected to be released in the coming weeks. Analysts anticipate that demand will remain high, particularly as the device transitions to regular sales.

Scalper prices for the iPhone Duo could also raise legal questions, especially concerning the resale market. Consumer organizations may increasingly advocate for market regulation to prevent inflated prices. The discussion about the pricing and availability of the iPhone Duo is expected to continue in the coming months. Consumer and competitor reactions will be crucial in determining how the market evolves. The first buyers of the iPhone Duo report high satisfaction with the product. The combination of innovative technology and Apple's user-friendliness seems to resonate well with consumers. The first deliveries of the iPhone Duo are scheduled for late January 2027, further heightening anticipation for the device.