Updated

Apple's newly launched foldable iPhone Duo, priced at $1,999, is drawing scrutiny over cost as it enters a crowded foldable market. In China, consumers are comparing the device unfavorably on price against cheaper Xiaomi and Huawei foldables, muddling its reception. In the U.S., major carriers T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon have rolled out initial promotions to soften the sticker price for consumers, though analysts say no full-scale price war has emerged yet. Analysts describe Apple as walking a 'tightrope' on iPhone pricing broadly, having raised prices on its new lineup while potentially having to absorb some costs itself amid rising component and tariff pressures. The pricing dynamics will be closely watched as an indicator of demand for Apple's push into the foldable category.