Tech Desk: Apple’s new foldable iPhone Duo has launched in India with a staggering ₹3 lakh price tag, creating a massive iPhone Duo price gap India compared to its approximately ₹1.9 lakh US equivalent. This colossal difference is raising questions among consumers and analysts alike, potentially testing brand loyalty in a crucial market. The disparity isn’t limited to the Duo; other new models like the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max also debut with significantly higher price points.

Industry experts point to a cocktail of factors driving this substantial price difference. India’s 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST), coupled with hefty import duties of 17-18% on non-locally manufactured units, forms the bulk of the extra cost. Furthermore, a consistently weaker Indian rupee against the US dollar adds another 5-6% to the burden. This means initial sales of the iPhone Duo, which won’t be “Made in India” immediately, will fully absorb these various levies, making them considerably more expensive.

Beyond the latest flagships, even previous-generation iPhones like the 16 and 17 have seen unexpected price increases. This trend is largely attributed to an ongoing global memory chip crisis, making it increasingly difficult for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to absorb production costs. Former Apple CEO Tim Cook had previously hinted at the inevitability of such price adjustments due to rising component expenses, a reality now directly impacting Indian consumers.

The inflated prices might significantly alter purchasing patterns, pushing some buyers towards overseas markets. Experts predict a potential doubling of demand for iPhones bought abroad on a year-on-year basis. While Apple’s core premium segment might largely withstand a ₹20,000-30,000 hike for Pro models, many consumers are expected to delay purchases, actively wait for promotional offers, or proactively explore international avenues for better deals, potentially affecting overall sales volume despite value growth.