Xiaomi Copied the Foldable iPhone Before Apple Even Announced It
Apple executives John Ternus and Joz defended the iPhone Duo after accusations that the company copied existing foldable designs. While Android rivals like Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, and ASUS released foldable hardware years before Apple, Apple leadership explained that certain development details remained secret and addressed how competitors predicted the device aspect ratio. Analysts suggest the hardware remains attractive to buyers despite Apple entering the foldable market late. Samsung has since expanded its own foldable lineup with the Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra.
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- ✓ Apple executives John Ternus and Joz defended the iPhone Duo after accusations that the company copied existing foldable designs.
- ✓ While Android rivals like Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, and ASUS released foldable hardware years before Apple, Apple leadership explained that certain development details remained secret and addressed how competitors predicted the device aspect ratio.
- ✓ Analysts suggest the hardware remains attractive to buyers despite Apple entering the foldable market late.
What changed
Samsung launched the Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra with updated screen dimensions.
Live updates
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Apple defends iPhone Duo against copycat claims
Apple executives John Ternus and Joz defended the iPhone Duo after accusations that the company copied existing foldable designs. While Android rivals like Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, and ASUS released foldable hardware years before Apple, Apple leadership explained that certain development details remained secret and addressed how competitors predicted the device aspect ratio. Analysts suggest the hardware remains attractive to buyers despite Apple entering the foldable market late. Samsung has since expanded its own foldable lineup with the Z Fold8 and Z Fold8 Ultra.
Why it matters
Apple is a late entrant into a market already populated by several Android manufacturers. This delay has led to public backlash and claims that Apple is mimicking established foldable form factors.
Still unconfirmed
- Samsung's Z Fold8 is 34mm shorter and 9mm wider than its traditional Fold form factor.
- The Z Fold8 features a 7.6 inch inner display and a 5.5 inch cover screen.
What to watch next
- Consumer sales data for the iPhone Duo compared to Android foldables.
- Official responses from Xiaomi or Samsung regarding the iPhone Duo aspect ratio.
confidence 70%Sources used for this update (2)
- chinaskinny.com — Apple folds, Duolingo pounces: China’s appetite for something new
- www.phonescoop.com — Google Makes its Foldable 3x Tougher
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Apple Responds to iPhone Duo Copycat and Foldable Backlash
Apple executives John Ternus and Joz have addressed copycat claims and backlash regarding the newly announced iPhone Duo. Competitors including Xiaomi, Huawei, Samsung, and ASUS have released foldable devices prior to Apple entering the category. Apple executives defended the launch by explaining what remained secret during development and how foldable rivals managed to guess the device aspect ratio beforehand. Despite trailing Android manufacturers that have produced foldables for years, analysts note that the new Apple hardware remains tempting to consumers.
Why it matters
Apple launched its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, at a media event in Cupertino on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. The device features a 5.4-inch screen and a remarkable hinge, priced at $2,000 for an October release. This entry positions Apple in a competitive foldable market previously populated by rivals like Xiaomi and Huawei.
What is confirmed
- Apple executives John Ternus and Joz responded to iPhone Duo copycat claims and foldable backlash.
- Rival brands including Xiaomi, Huawei, Samsung, and ASUS have offered foldable devices prior to Apple.
Still unconfirmed
- Foldable rivals guessed the correct aspect ratio for the iPhone Duo before Apple officially revealed it.
What to watch next
- Apple releases the iPhone Duo in October 2026
- Subsequent releases of smaller or larger foldable devices from Apple
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.analyticsinsight.net — Apple Addresses iPhone Duo Copycat Claims Amid Foldable Backlash
- www.usatoday.com — Move over Apple, these brands say they’ve been folding for years
- www.zdnet.com — 3 of Apple’s big new releases have one thing in common: Android did it first
- www.engadget.com — Where should Apple go after the iPhone Duo? Bring on smaller and larger foldables
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Apple Unveils iPhone Duo Foldable Smartphone
Apple has officially launched the iPhone Duo, a foldable smartphone priced at $2,000 featuring a "remarkable hinge." The device will be available in October and includes a 5.4-inch screen. This release follows a trend of foldable launches from competitors, including Xiaomi and Huawei. While the iPhone Duo arrives after several other foldable models, it represents Apple's first entry into the category. The announcement was made by CEO John Ternus at a media event in Cupertino on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.
Why it matters
Apple spent a decade developing foldable technology under former CEO Tim Cook. The move comes as Counterpoint Research expects global foldable shipments to exceed 100 million units by the end of 2026. Xiaomi and Huawei previously released foldable models to capture market share before Apple's entry.
What is confirmed
- Apple introduced the iPhone Duo foldable smartphone at a September 2026 media event.
- The iPhone Duo is priced at $2,000 and features a "remarkable hinge."
- The iPhone Duo will launch in October and features a 5.4-inch screen.
- John Ternus is the current CEO of Apple.
Still unconfirmed
- The Xiaomi 18 Fold is a lookalike of the iPhone Duo.
- The iPhone Duo represents a breakthrough moment for foldable phones.
What to watch next
- October release of the iPhone Duo
- Consumer sales data comparing iPhone Duo to Xiaomi 18 Fold and Huawei Mate XT2
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (6)
- www.theatlantic.com — Okay, Sure, a Folding iPhone
- www.digit.in — Siri AI on iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone Duo: 5 best features coming to iPhone users
- www.cnet.com — Apple Might Be Late to the Party, but the iPhone Duo Is Still a Breakthrough Moment for Foldables
- www.macrumors.com — iPhone Duo
- mashable.com — The Xiaomi 18 Fold is an iPhone Duo lookalike with one huge advantage
- www.digit.in — Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2: Which Ultra watch should you buy?
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Xiaomi and Huawei Launch Foldable Phones Ahead of Apple Event
Xiaomi and Huawei have launched new foldable smartphones to beat Apple to market ahead of a high-profile product event. Xiaomi debuted its 18 Fold starting at $1,540, while Huawei released its Mate XT2 tri-fold starting at $2,980. Counterpoint Research predicts that global foldable phone shipments will surpass 100 million units by the end of this year. Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone at the Wednesday event, following a decade-long development process guided by former CEO Tim Cook.
Why it matters
The timing of the Xiaomi and Huawei releases highlights the intense rivalry in the premium handset sector. Apple enters the folding phone market after years of anticipation, with analysts predicting swift dominance despite high expected price points starting above $2,000.
What is confirmed
- Xiaomi and Huawei launched new foldable phones ahead of Apple's event.
- Counterpoint Research predicted that global foldable phone shipments will surpass 100 million units by the end of this year.
- Huawei's tri-fold Mate XT2 starts at $2,980.
- Xiaomi's 18 Fold begins at $1,540.
Still unconfirmed
- Apple is rumored to unveil its first foldable iPhone at its Wednesday event.
- Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to headline Wednesday's Surprise and Shine event.
- Former Apple CEO Tim Cook guided the development of the foldable iPhone, which targeted an initial retail price of $1,999 and could cost around $3,000 with storage upgrades.
What to watch next
- Apple's official product unveilings at the Wednesday event regarding the foldable iPhone.
- Actual retail pricing and availability details released by Apple for its new devices.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.cnbc.com — Chinese giants Xiaomi, Huawei race to get ahead of Apple’s rumored foldable iPhone
- 9to5mac.com — Apple will quickly become a dominant player in folding phones – Counterpoint
- tech.yahoo.com — Huawei and Xiaomi launch foldable phones ahead of Apple event
- macdailynews.com — Apple’s foldable iPhone took a decade to arrive — and may start above $2,000
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Xiaomi Unveils 18 Fold Ahead of Apple Launch
Xiaomi released its new mid-size Xiaomi 18 Fold smartphone, featuring a passport-style A4 aspect ratio design, an XRING O3 chip, a triple camera, and a large battery. Weighing 219g, the device includes a 7.68-inch foldable screen and a 5.38-inch outer display. The launch occurs in China alongside a new foldable from Huawei, intensifying competition in the premium handset market just days before Apple is expected to reveal its iPhone Ultra on September 9. Meanwhile, a recent report reveals that former Apple CEO Tim Cook guided the development of the foldable iPhone, which targeted an initial retail price of $1,999 and could cost around $3,000 with storage upgrades.
Why it matters
The timing of these Chinese product rollouts places direct pressure on Apple as it prepares to enter the foldable device category. Component costs are rising globally due to a memory shortage driven by AI data center demand, forcing manufacturers to prioritize high-margin hardware. Apple previously aimed to replicate the pricing strategy of the 2017 iPhone X to avoid crossing a controversial $2,000 threshold.
What is confirmed
- Xiaomi launched the 18 Fold wide-format foldable smartphone featuring a passport-style design and an XRING O3 chip.
- Former Apple CEO Tim Cook played a major role in the development of the foldable iPhone.
- The foldable iPhone early development targeted a starting retail price of $1,999.
- Chinese tech companies Huawei and Xiaomi launched new flagship foldable smartphones on Monday.
- The Xiaomi 18 Fold weighs 219g and features a 7.68-inch foldable display alongside a 5.38-inch outer display.
Still unconfirmed
- The foldable iPhone could reach around $3,000 with storage upgrades.
- Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone Ultra on September 9.
What to watch next
- Apple's official product announcement on September 9, 2026
- Pricing and international availability announcements for the Xiaomi 18 Fold
confidence 95%Sources used for this update (7)
- www.cnet.com — I Actually Really Like Xiaomi’s Folding iPhone Ultra Rival
- www.theverge.com — Xiaomi’s wide foldable promises more power than Samsung’s
- www.zdnet.com — I tried the Xiaomi 18 Fold before the iPhone Ultra launch – it beat my Samsung in 3 ways
- www.nbcnews.com — Chinese tech giants Huawei and Xiaomi launch new foldable smartphones ahead of Apple event
- www.macrumors.com — Foldable iPhone Development History and Price Revealed in New Report
- www.engadget.com — Xiaomi 18 Fold hands-on: An attractive 'mid-size' foldable with powerful specs
- www.analyticsinsight.net — Top News Today: Huawei, Xiaomi Foldables, Karnataka Startup Fund, IOCL Exam, Stablecoins
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Xiaomi launches 18 Fold ahead of Apple's expected iPhone Ultra debut
Xiaomi released the 18 Fold wide-format foldable smartphone two days before Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone Ultra on September 9. The 18 Fold features a passport-style design and an XRING O3 chip, positioning it as a direct competitor to Apple's first foldable device. This release occurs amid a global memory shortage driven by AI data center demand, which is increasing costs for smartphones and PCs as manufacturers prioritize high-profit AI products over standard consumer hardware.
Why it matters
The foldable market is intensifying with entries from Xiaomi and Huawei alongside Apple's anticipated entry. This competition arrives as memory suppliers like Micron benefit from a shift toward high-bandwidth memory for AI.
What is confirmed
- Xiaomi launched the 18 Fold two days before Apple's expected foldable iPhone debut.
- Apple is expected to introduce the iPhone Ultra at an event on September 9.
Still unconfirmed
- The Huawei Mate XT 2 is a trifold smartphone costing $3,000.
What to watch next
- The Apple event on September 9
- Official pricing and specifications for the iPhone Ultra
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (5)
- www.macworld.com — iPhone Ultra: Latest foldable iPhone release date, price, specs and rumors
- www.tradingkey.com — Is AI Making iPhones More Expensive? Micron Among Big Winners as Global Memory Shortage Escalates
- www.theapplepost.com — Xiaomi launches iPhone Ultra rival just two days before Apple’s foldable iPhone debut
- gizmodo.com — Huawei Has a New $3,000 Trifold, Just in Case Apple’s Foldable iPhone Wasn’t Expensive Enough for You
- www.androidauthority.com — The latest Wide Fold is here and has everything the Galaxy Z Fold 8 lacks
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Xiaomi 18 Fold Debuts Amid Foldable iPhone Ultra Anticipation
Xiaomi has showcased the Xiaomi 18 Fold at IFA 2026, featuring an XRING O3 chip and a passport-style design that is wider and shorter than the Galaxy Z Fold 8. This release coincides with reports that Apple is preparing to launch its first foldable flagship, the iPhone Ultra. While Gizmodo alleges Xiaomi copied the foldable iPhone before its official announcement, Apple's upcoming unveiling is expected to be led by a new CEO, as Tim Cook is identified as the former CEO.
Why it matters
The foldable market is intensifying as established Android competitors face a pending entry from Apple. The design shift toward passport-style dimensions suggests a move away from traditional tall foldable forms.
What is confirmed
- Xiaomi showcased the Xiaomi 18 Fold featuring an XRING O3 chip at IFA 2026.
- The Xiaomi 18 Fold has a passport-style design that is shorter and wider than the Galaxy Z Fold 8.
Still unconfirmed
- The Retroid Pocket 6 received an upgrade.
What to watch next
- Apple's product announcements on September 9
- Official specifications for the iPhone Ultra
- Retail launch dates for the Xiaomi 18 Fold
confidence 70%Sources used for this update (7)
- Gizmodo — Xiaomi Copied the Foldable iPhone Before Apple Even Announced It
- GSMArena.com — Xiaomi 18 Fold with XRING O3 chip showcased at IFA 2026, we go eyes on - GSMArena.com news
- Engadget — Xiaomi's New Passport-Style Foldable Looks Shorter And Wider Than The Galaxy Z Fold 8
- Forbes — Android Circuit: Galaxy Z Fold8 Success, Xiaomi 18 Fold Preview, Retroid Pocket 6 Upgrade
- Sportskeeda Tech — Xiaomi 18 Fold vs Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold: Which is the better foldable phone?
- www.phonearena.com — I wanted ex-Apple CEO Tim Cook to be present at the foldable iPhone Ultra launch, and I kind of got my wish
- www.phonearena.com — I won't immediately judge Apple's new CEO on September 9, and I don't think you should either
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