Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market has sparked a social media competition involving some of the biggest names in technology. Samsung, Duolingo and Motorola all reacted to the launch of Apple’s first foldable iPhone.
Apple unveiled the iPhone Duo on September 9. The device opens horizontally to reveal a 7.6-inch display, while a smaller screen is available when the phone is folded. It is Apple’s first attempt to compete directly in a foldable market where Samsung has been active for years.
Samsung on the launch of Apple’s iPhone quickly responded. Samsung launched its first Galaxy Fold in 2019 and suggested that Apple was now following a path it had already established.
The company also joked about the ‘Duo’ name. Samsung Mobile US tagged language learning platform Duolingo and jokingly claimed Apple had copied both companies. Duolingo then joined the conversation with its own humorous response.
Samsung also took another direct swipe at Apple, suggesting that the company was simply bringing back ideas Samsung had already introduced.
Samsung continued mocking other parts of Apple’s presentation as well, while promoting its own experience in foldable smartphones.
Moreover, Motorola also entered the social media battle. The company posted an Instagram video showing the development of its famous Razr series over the years.
The video featured different generations of the pink Razr before moving towards Motorola’s newer foldable devices. Motorola suggested that while some companies were only now entering the foldable market, it had been working on and improving the technology for years.
Meanwhile, Apple has positioned the iPhone Duo as a premium productivity device. It features an A20 Pro chip, supports multitasking and Apple Pencil, and starts at $1,999. The phone is scheduled to go on sale on October 23.
The online exchanges attracted social media users attention. However, Apple’s arrival represents poses a new challenge for established foldable-phone manufacturers, particularly Samsung.