Apple enters a crowded foldable smartphone market in China – can it beat Huawei?

Apple's iPhone Duo launch in China highlights a critical market entry challenge beyond product specs: local regulatory friction. The dual-eSIM design, while innovative, runs directly into mainland China's strict real-name registration for eSIMs. This requires time-consuming in-person identity checks, a significant inconvenience for Chinese consumers accustomed to seamless digital services. This situation points to a broader issue for foreign tech giants in Asia. Even with a strong brand like Apple, local regulatory landscapes and consumer habits can create unexpected adoption barriers. For Huawei and Xiaomi, this regulatory friction could inadvertently strengthen their entrenched positions, as their products likely avoid such activation complexities. The market will watch if Apple can navigate this local hurdle or if it becomes a significant drag on iPhone Duo sales in China.