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Apple's iPhone Duo Launch Sparks Scalping Amid Market Decline

Apple's iPhone Duo Launch Sparks Scalping Amid Market Decline

First seen 24 Oct 2026, 16:14 UTC • •
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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster •October 25, 2026 at 14:43 UTC
  • •Scalpers offered up to $448 over retail for iPhone Duo amid tight supply.
  • •Apple's market share in China rose to 19.5% despite a 10% decline in overall shipments.
  • •Rising memory prices and supply shortages are expected to impact future smartphone sales.

On October 23, 2026, scalpers offered significant premiums for Apple's new iPhone Duo outside its Beijing store, reflecting high demand amid tight supply. Despite a 10% decline in China's smartphone shipments year-over-year, Apple increased its market share to 19.5%, second only to Huawei. The iPhone Duo's launch coincided with a broader market downturn, where overall smartphone shipments hit a 14-year low. The iPhone 18 Pro series also saw a strong early launch, contributing to Apple's improved position in the market. However, rising memory prices and supply shortages are expected to impact future sales. The launch of the iPhone Duo is part of Apple's strategy to compete against established foldable phone makers like Huawei and Xiaomi. The company is also set to introduce its AI system, Apple Intelligence, in China, pending regulatory approvals.

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Timeline

2026-10-23
iPhone Duo launch in Beijing
Scalpers offered significant premiums for the iPhone Duo outside the flagship store, reflecting high demand amid tight supply.
CNBC
2026-10-23
Smartphone shipments hit 14-year low
Counterpoint Research reported a 10% year-over-year decline in China's smartphone shipments, marking the lowest level since 2012.
Counterpoint Research
2026-10-23
Apple gains market share
Despite the market downturn, Apple increased its share to 19.5%, driven by strong sales of the iPhone 18 Pro series.
9To5Mac

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Common questions

What is the significance of the iPhone Duo launch?
The iPhone Duo's launch is significant as it marks Apple's entry into the foldable phone market, reflecting high consumer demand despite broader market declines.
How does Apple's market share compare to competitors?
Apple's market share in China rose to 19.5%, making it the second-largest smartphone vendor, just behind Huawei.
What factors are affecting smartphone sales in China?
Rising memory prices and supply shortages are contributing to a decline in smartphone sales, impacting all manufacturers.