by HOU Ruining
Apple's first foldable iPhone is available below its official price on some Chinese e-commerce platforms after subsidies, days after launch, as buyers complain about damaged screens and apps that fail to fill its display.
On October 26, a 256GB white iPhone Duo traded at 16,655 yuan on resale platform Dewu, roughly 650 yuan above retail, down from more than 26,000 yuan previously. Some e-commerce offers fell to 15,799 yuan after subsidies, below Apple's 15,999-yuan starting price.
The reversal comes despite delivery estimates stretching into January for some orders on Apple's website.
Since the October 23 launch, buyers have reported inner screens cracking or bulging near the hinge. Aurora News reported that an Australian customer's screen cracked within six hours and fewer than 20 folds. Apple replaced it, the buyer said.
A Nanjing buyer who purchased an unopened phone from a scalper reported screen damage the next morning. The store referred the case to Apple's headquarters.
Software has drawn wider frustration. WeChat users reported large black bars around the app on the unfolded screen, while complaints about QQ, shopping and banking apps described distorted layouts.
An Apple customer service representative told Jiemian News that WeChat was still being adapted. Tencent has promised updates without a timetable.
Reviewers also flagged stubborn fingerprints and compromises between the inner and outer screens. Apple had showcased eight adapted apps before launch, but broader compatibility remains unfinished.
Securities Times reported that Apple increased Duo orders by 30%, though the total remained below 10 million units.
