Archive · 12 Sep 2026
iPhone 18 Duo Price Sparks Debate Over Value
Apple launched a very expensive phone called the iPhone 18 Duo.
It costs about as much as a small car.
Some people can afford it using monthly payments and discounts.
The writer already has an iPhone 14 Pro that works well.
They do not think the new phone would change how they use a phone every day.
The writer would rather spend the money on a trip or other experiences.
The phone may be impressive because it folds, but that does not mean everyone needs it.
The article says wanting an expensive phone and being able to afford one are different things.
Apple launched the iPhone 18 Duo on September 9, with prices beginning around Rs 3 lakh and reaching nearly Rs 5 lakh.
The phone’s price triggered social-media comparisons with cars, including the Tata Tiago, and with Samsung foldables.
The author, who still uses an iPhone 14 Pro, says the Duo does not offer enough personal value to justify replacing it.
A 24-month EMI plan could reduce the Rs 3 lakh price to roughly Rs 14,000 per month, before discounts and exchange offers.
The article argues that affordability and desire are different, suggesting buyers consider travel, gold, cars or investments instead of another phone.
- Who
- Apple and potential iPhone 18 Duo buyers; the article is written by an iPhone 14 Pro user.
- What
- The iPhone 18 Duo’s high price has prompted debate over whether its foldable design and features justify spending around Rs 3 lakh.
- When
- Apple launched the iPhone 18 Duo on September 9.
- Where
- The launch and reaction are discussed in the context of India, with prices given in rupees.
- Why
- The price is high enough to compare with a car, leading people to question whether buying the phone is more worthwhile than travel, investments or other uses of the money.
Spend on experiences and practical value
Buy the premium foldable phone
Whether the upgrade is necessary
Spend on experiences and practical value
The author says an iPhone 14 Pro already handles photographs, messaging, videos, work and calls, so the Duo does not provide a compelling reason to upgrade.
Buy the premium foldable phone
Buyers who want a foldable iPhone may consider the Duo’s new form factor and engineering worth the price.
How to use Rs 3 lakh
Spend on experiences and practical value
The money could fund travel, museums, dining, gold, a car contribution or an investment, creating experiences or longer-term value.
Buy the premium foldable phone
A consumer who can afford the phone may reasonably choose to spend the money on an exclusive device.
Affordability versus desirability
Spend on experiences and practical value
The article argues that being able to afford Rs 3 lakh does not mean wanting to spend it on a phone.
Buy the premium foldable phone
EMIs, exchange offers and bank discounts could make the phone financially manageable for some Indian consumers.
- Starting price
- Around Rs 3 lakh
- Top-end price
- Nearly Rs 5 lakh
- Possible EMI
- Roughly Rs 14,000 per month over 24 months for Rs 3 lakh
- Launch date
- September 9
- Author’s current phone
- iPhone 14 Pro
- Main design feature
- A foldable phone form factor
- Article’s preferred alternative
- Taking the existing iPhone 14 Pro on a holiday