New Delhi. A new TechArc study shows Apple’s foldable iPhone Duo is far pricier in emerging economies than in affluent regions. By comparing 14 markets, the research finds the handset costs roughly 63 % more on average in low‑ and middle‑income countries.
How the price gap was measured
TechArc examined eight developing nations – India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Kenya, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Vietnam and Turkey – against six wealthy markets such as the United States, United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Canada, the United Kingdom and Germany.
Numbers that tell the story
The average retail price in the emerging‑market group came to about $3,669, while the high‑income group averaged $2,248.
Turkey tops the list with an estimated $4,741, followed by the Philippines at roughly $4,519. In India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Vietnam the phone sells for between $2,950 and $3,590. By contrast, the United States offers the device at $1,999, the lowest price among the surveyed countries.
Why the gap is so wide
Several forces drive the premium in developing markets. Import duties, customs levies and an 18 % GST in India raise the landed cost. Local currency depreciation and fluctuating exchange rates force Apple and its partners to add safety margins. Moreover, Apple’s strategy of importing the iPhone Duo fully assembled subjects it to the full suite of taxes.
Strategic pricing or market reality?
Analysts suggest the higher price may be intentional, positioning the iPhone Duo as a luxury foldable for consumers with strong purchasing power. The approach aligns with Apple’s broader effort to brand its foldable as a premium offering.
“The combination of import duties, GST and currency volatility can push the final retail price well above the US benchmark,” the TechArc report notes.
