Apple’s New Foldable iPhone: A Bold Move by the New CEO
BBC News Headline
Apple foldable iPhone: New boss starts with gamble on latest device – BBC News
Introduction
In his second week as Apple’s CEO, John Ternus unveiled a significant change to the iconic iPhone, marking the first major redesign since its introduction in 2007. The new iPhone Duo, a foldable smartphone, is both larger and more expensive than previous models, starting at $1,999 (£1,475) in the US, with UK prices beginning at £1,999.
Key Features and Design
- Foldable Display: When unfolded, it resembles a small iPad. Folded in half, it adopts a wider iPhone form factor.
- Inspiration: Ternus credited the Duo’s design to the iPad, aiming to create a unique feel compared to other foldable phones on the market.
- Innovation: He emphasized Apple’s focus on making the folding experience "fluid and completely intuitive," marking a series of innovations that redefine foldable phone usage.
Executive Insights
- Ben Wood: Chief analyst at FDM CCS Insight, suggests Ternus’s promotion was timed to coincide with this significant iPhone launch.
- Carolina Milanesi: An analyst at Creative Strategies, noted the presentation’s emphasis on Ternus, creating a sense of him being a product himself.
Market Reception and Analysis
- Criticism and Expectations: Some analysts, like Dipanjan Chatterjee from Forrester, question whether the foldable iPhone will be a premium ornament or drive meaningful growth.
- Historical Context: The highest previous iPhone starting price was $900 (£664). Apple also introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max with US starting prices of $1,199 (£855) and $1,299 (£959), respectively.
- Potential Success: The new design faces challenges, including adapting to the iPhone’s established user experience and competition from other foldable devices.
