Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, is facing a severe supply shortage in India, with some retailers reportedly demanding up to ₹1 lakh above its official price. The device went on sale on October 23, 2026, but limited initial supplies and strong demand have created an opportunity for sellers to charge substantial premiums to customers unwilling to wait for fresh stock.
iPhone Duo Prices Rise in the Grey Market
The iPhone Duo starts at ₹2,99,900 for the 256GB variant, making it one of the most expensive smartphones available in India. However, buyers seeking immediate delivery may have to pay between ₹70,000 and ₹1 lakh extra at some retail outlets.
According to reports, several retailers in Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad received only around 10 units each. The All India Mobile Retailers Association (AIMRA) also reported that some prominent retailers expecting approximately 100 units across variants received only five to seven.
At the highest reported premium, the base model could cost buyers close to ₹4 lakh. Not every retailer is charging extra, however, and some are continuing to sell devices at the official price to regular customers.
Why Is the iPhone Duo in Short Supply?
The shortage is linked to manufacturing challenges affecting Apple’s first foldable smartphone. Its advanced hinge mechanism, flexible display technology and demanding quality-control requirements have reportedly complicated production.
The iPhone Duo uses a foldable display that allows the device to function as both a conventional smartphone and a larger-screen device when unfolded. Producing these components at scale while maintaining Apple’s quality standards has reportedly proved challenging.
The supply crunch is not limited to India. Apple’s online stores in India and the United States have displayed delivery estimates extending into 2027, indicating that buyers in multiple markets may have to wait for new stock.
Grey-Market Sellers Capitalise on Demand
With authorised supplies limited, some sellers are reportedly sourcing devices from overseas markets, including Dubai and Singapore. These phones are then offered to Indian buyers willing to pay extra for faster delivery.
However, purchasing through unofficial channels carries risks. Buyers may not receive a valid Indian invoice or the same warranty and service support available through authorised retailers. They should also verify the device’s origin, network compatibility and warranty eligibility before paying.
Should Buyers Pay the Premium?
For most consumers, waiting for official stock is likely to be the more sensible option. Paying an additional ₹70,000 to ₹1 lakh does not provide extra features or better hardware; it simply secures earlier access to a scarce device.
The launch nevertheless demonstrates the strong interest surrounding Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market. Whether that demand translates into sustained sales will depend on how quickly supply improves and whether buyers consider the premium pricing worthwhile.
Summary
Apple’s first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, is facing a supply crunch in India, with some retailers reportedly charging up to ₹1 lakh above its starting price of ₹2,99,900. Limited initial allocations and manufacturing challenges have pushed delivery estimates into 2027. Buyers may be better off waiting for authorised stock rather than paying substantial premiums through unofficial sellers.
