Apple’s first foldable iPhone has finally arrived, but securing one is easier said than done. The iPhone Duo went up for pre-order this week, and within hours, most regions reported stock exhaustion. Delivery estimates have already slipped to late January, leaving many eager buyers empty-handed. For those who missed out, alternatives are emerging—most notably, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold8, which now benefits from a timely price cut. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S26 series and Google’s Pixel 11 lineup are also enjoying promotional pricing, giving consumers plenty to consider before the holiday season.
The iPhone Duo Pre-Order Frenzy
Apple’s entrance into the foldable market has been highly anticipated for years, and the iPhone Duo appears to have lived up to the hype—at least in terms of demand. Pre-orders opened on the Apple UK website, with the 256GB model starting at £1,999. That’s a premium price, even by Apple’s standards, but it didn’t deter the faithful. Within minutes, shipping estimates began to slip, and by the end of the day, most configurations were showing delivery windows well into late January.
The iPhone Duo features a wide-screen aspect ratio that sets it apart from earlier foldables, which often relied on tall, narrow displays. Apple’s take emphasizes a more tablet-like experience when unfolded, and early hands-on impressions suggest the hinge and crease have been minimized. However, the high price and limited availability have left many potential buyers searching for alternatives.
Why the iPhone Duo Sold Out So Quickly
Several factors contributed to the rapid sell-out. First, Apple’s supply chain is still ramping up production for its first foldable, and initial yields are reportedly lower than expected. Second, the company likely allocated limited stock to each region to gauge demand. Third, the iPhone Duo has generated significant buzz among Apple enthusiasts who have been waiting for a foldable iPhone since Samsung first popularized the form factor. With delivery estimates now at late January, those who didn’t pre-order early may have to wait until spring for a chance to get one.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Gets a Price Cut
In a move that seems perfectly timed to capitalize on Apple’s supply constraints, Samsung has announced a price cut for the Galaxy Z Fold8. The foldable, which also features a wide-screen aspect ratio similar to the iPhone Duo, is now available at a discount across several retailers. This makes it a compelling alternative for those who want a foldable experience without the long wait—or the Apple premium.
The Galaxy Z Fold8 has been on the market for a few months, and while it launched at a high price, the reduction brings it closer to mainstream flagship territory. Samsung’s foldable offers a refined hinge, improved crease reduction, and a versatile camera system. It also supports the S Pen, a feature that Apple’s iPhone Duo lacks. For productivity-focused users, that could be a deciding factor.
How the Price Cut Changes the Equation
With the discount, the Galaxy Z Fold8 undercuts the iPhone Duo by a significant margin. While the iPhone Duo starts at £1,999, the Z Fold8 can now be found for considerably less, especially if you shop around or trade in an older device. Samsung has also been bundling accessories and offering enhanced trade-in values, making the overall cost of ownership more attractive. For anyone who was intrigued by the iPhone Duo but put off by the price or availability, the Z Fold8 is now a serious contender.
Galaxy S26 Series and Pixel 11 Lineup Also on Sale
The foldable drama isn’t the only story in the mobile deals space this week. Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series and Google’s Pixel 11 lineup are both seeing discounts and promotions. These are traditional slab phones, but they offer cutting-edge specs and camera systems that appeal to a broad audience.
Galaxy S26 Deals
The Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra have been discounted at various retailers. Samsung’s latest flagships bring improved low-light photography, a faster chipset, and a refined design. The Ultra model, in particular, has seen a price drop that makes its advanced zoom camera and S Pen support more accessible. If you’re not ready to commit to a foldable, the S26 series remains a safe bet with top-tier performance.
Pixel 11 Promotions
Google’s Pixel 11 lineup is also on sale, with the standard Pixel 11 and Pixel 11 Pro seeing notable reductions. The Pixel 11 Pro stands out for its computational photography prowess and clean Android experience. With the discounts, Google’s flagships are now more competitive against Samsung and Apple. For users who prioritize camera quality and timely updates, the Pixel 11 is worth a look.
What This Means for Buyers
The current deals landscape offers something for nearly every type of smartphone buyer. If you’re set on Apple’s foldable, you’ll need to act fast and possibly wait until early next year for delivery. If you’re open to alternatives, the Galaxy Z Fold8’s price cut makes it an attractive option with immediate availability. And if foldables aren’t your thing, the Galaxy S26 and Pixel 11 promotions provide excellent value on conventional flagships.
It’s also worth noting that more deals are likely to appear as the holiday shopping season approaches. Retailers often compete aggressively, so keeping an eye on price trackers and official store pages can pay off. For now, the iPhone Duo’s sell-out has created a ripple effect, and Samsung seems poised to benefit.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s first foldable has made a splash, but its limited availability has left the door open for competitors. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold8, with its new price cut, is the most direct alternative, offering a similar wide-screen experience without the wait. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S26 and Pixel 11 deals cater to those who prefer a more traditional form factor. Whether you’re a foldable enthusiast or simply looking for a flagship upgrade, this week’s deals provide plenty of options—provided you’re ready to make a move.
