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Apple’s first foldable, the iPhone Duo, went from launch-day hype and markups to actual discounts surprisingly quickly in some Chinese channels. User reports and platform listings indicate that the phone is now available below its official launch price in certain regions, mainly through major e-commerce subsidy programs.
According to feedback across platforms, the iPhone Duo has dropped below its initial retail price in parts of China. Pinduoduo added it to its “10 billion YuanSubsidy” channel (only available in selected regions), knocking about 200-300 Yuan (about $30-$45) off the starting price. On launch day, the phone retailed for 1,500-2,000 yuan (about $220-$300) in secondary markets. Just two days later, some listings are already highlighting the official price.
That said, many Apple Stores across the country still don’t have walk-in stock. And if you try to order from Apple’s official website with delivery, some configurations still show waiting times that stretch until January next year.
The base 256GB model will launch at 15,999 Yuan in China (about $2400), with higher storage options from there. The rapid shift from scarcity premiums to modest discounts shows the gap between limited official supply and more flexible availability through e-commerce and authorized dealers in certain areas.
Long-term demand still looks strong according to analysts. IDC previously estimated that Apple’s first foldable could ship more than 10 million units in its debut year and potentially take about 40% of the global foldable market by 2027.
While official channels remain scarce, the early appearance of bottom-list prices in qualified regions gives some buyers a little easier way.
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