iPhone Duo Pre-Orders Begin as Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 and Pixel 11 Get Major Discounts

Apple has officially opened pre-orders for its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, but customers hoping to get their hands on the new device may have to wait longer than expected. According to the latest reports dated October 17, 2026, the foldable iPhone has already sold out for early delivery in several regions, with estimated shipping dates moving to late January.

While Apple's new foldable is attracting attention, it is not the only premium smartphone worth considering this week. Samsung has reduced prices on several flagship devices, including the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy S26 Ultra, and the rest of the Galaxy S26 family. Google is also offering discounts on its Pixel 11 series, giving buyers more options across different price ranges.

For shoppers in the United Kingdom, these price changes create an opportunity to compare Apple's latest foldable with Samsung's foldable phones and Google's premium Android lineup before making a purchase.

Apple iPhone Duo Pre-Orders Start at £1,999:

Apple's first foldable iPhone is now available to pre-order through the official Apple UK website. The starting price is £1,999 for the 256GB model, placing the device firmly in the premium smartphone category.

However, availability could be a concern for buyers who want to receive the phone as soon as possible. Initial stock has reportedly sold out quickly in many regions, and delivery estimates have already moved to late January.

The iPhone Duo features a 7.6-inch main folding display and a smaller 5.4-inch cover screen. This design allows users to operate the device as a conventional smartphone when folded and enjoy a larger screen when it is opened.

Under the hood, the phone is powered by Apple's A20 Pro chipset. The device also features a dual rear camera system, providing a photography setup for everyday pictures and video recording.

The large internal display could make the iPhone Duo appealing to users who frequently watch videos, browse websites, read documents, or multitask on their phones. Its foldable design also offers an alternative to carrying a traditional smartphone and a separate small tablet.

Nevertheless, the starting price of £1,999 is a significant investment. Buyers who are not committed to Apple's ecosystem may want to compare the new iPhone with Samsung's discounted foldable models before placing an order.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra Gets a £560 Discount:

Samsung's latest foldable smartphones have received notable price reductions, making them more attractive to customers looking for a large-screen mobile device.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra with 512GB of storage is now listed at £1,509 on Amazon UK, representing a £560 reduction from its original price.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and comes with a triple rear camera setup. Its premium hardware is designed for users who want a combination of multitasking capabilities, photography features, and high-end performance.

A foldable phone can be especially useful for people who regularly work with multiple applications, edit documents, read lengthy articles, or consume media while travelling. The larger display offers more room for content than a conventional smartphone screen.

The discounted price also makes the Ultra model worth comparing with Apple's new foldable iPhone. Although the two devices belong to different software ecosystems, both target customers interested in premium foldable technology.

At £1,509, the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra is still an expensive purchase. However, the £560 price reduction brings its listed cost considerably below the iPhone Duo's £1,999 starting price.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Drops to £1,499:

Customers who want a foldable smartphone but do not necessarily need the Ultra model can also consider the standard Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8.

The 512GB version is available for £1,499 on Amazon UK following a £370 price cut.

Like the Ultra model, the Galaxy Z Fold8 uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. However, it features a dual rear camera setup instead of the triple camera arrangement found on the Ultra.

Its wide-screen folding design is another important part of its appeal. The larger internal display provides additional space for reading, watching videos, browsing the internet, and working with compatible applications.

For buyers comparing the Galaxy Z Fold8 with the iPhone Duo, price and availability may be major deciding factors. Samsung's discounted foldable costs £500 less than Apple's £1,999 starting price, based on the listed UK prices.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 could therefore be worth considering for shoppers who want a premium foldable experience without paying Apple's introductory price.

However, the best choice will ultimately depend on individual preferences, including operating system, camera requirements, software features, and the way the phone will be used.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Receives a £490 Price Cut:

Samsung's discounts are not limited to foldable devices. The Galaxy S26 Ultra has also received a significant reduction, with the 512GB version listed at £1,039 on Amazon UK.

That represents a £490 discount from its original price. Customers who need additional storage can also find the 1TB model listed at £1,399.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and features a quad rear camera system. Its camera hardware and premium specifications make it an option for users who prioritize photography, performance, and advanced smartphone features.

One of its notable features is Privacy Display, which is designed to help limit the visibility of on-screen content from people viewing the phone at an angle. This can be useful when checking private messages, reading work documents, or accessing sensitive information in public places.

Unlike the Galaxy Z Fold8 series, the S26 Ultra uses a conventional smartphone design rather than a folding display. That may appeal to customers who prefer a traditional handset with high-end hardware.

The discounted price also makes it an interesting alternative for shoppers who want a flagship Samsung phone but do not need the additional screen space offered by a foldable model.

Samsung Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus Also Get Discounts:

The standard Galaxy S26 is another option for customers looking to save money on a premium smartphone.

Its 512GB configuration is currently listed at £759 on Amazon UK, reflecting a £370 reduction from the original price.

The standard model features Samsung's Exynos 2600 chipset and a triple rear camera system. It offers a more conventional smartphone experience for people who do not require the larger display or additional features of the Ultra model.

Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus has received a smaller price reduction of £80. The reported Amazon UK listings include the 256GB version at £1,099 and the 512GB version at £1,269.

Both the standard Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Plus use the Exynos 2600 processor and feature triple rear cameras.

The difference between these models largely comes down to the overall device experience, including display size, storage configuration, and the features each buyer values most.

For customers who primarily need a phone for communication, social media, photography, video streaming, and everyday applications, the standard Galaxy S26 may offer a more affordable route into Samsung's flagship range.

Those who prefer a larger screen can compare the Galaxy S26 Plus with the Ultra model before deciding whether the additional cost is justified.

Google Pixel 11 Series Gets New Price Cuts:

Google's Pixel 11 lineup is also included in the latest smartphone discounts. The range offers another alternative for buyers who are comparing premium Android devices with Apple's latest iPhone.

The standard Google Pixel 11 is available with discounts of up to £130, depending on the colour and storage configuration.

The 256GB model is listed at £749 on Amazon UK, while the 512GB version costs £899.

These prices put the standard Pixel 11 in a different price category from the new iPhone Duo and Samsung's premium foldables. Buyers who want a flagship-style Android phone without spending more than £1,000 may find the standard Pixel 11 worth considering.

Google has also reduced the prices of its two higher-end models.

The Pixel 11 Pro with 256GB of storage is listed at £999, representing an £80 reduction from its launch price. The larger Pixel 11 Pro XL with 256GB of storage is available for £1,099 after a £180 discount.

All three Pixel 11 models are powered by Google's Tensor G6 chipset and run Android 17. They also feature triple rear camera systems, although the Pro models offer more advanced camera hardware.

The Pixel 11 series may appeal to users who prefer Google's Android experience and want a premium smartphone with a strong emphasis on photography and software features.

The standard model is the least expensive option in the range, while the Pixel 11 Pro and Pro XL provide alternatives for buyers seeking higher-end hardware and a larger device.

Smartphone Prices Compared in the UK:

With Apple, Samsung, and Google all competing for premium smartphone buyers, comparing prices can help shoppers identify the best option for their needs.

The following prices are based on the reported listings dated October 17, 2026.

Smartphone| Storage| Reported UK Price| Reported Discount

Apple iPhone Duo| 256GB| £1,999| Pre-order

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra| 512GB| £1,509| £560

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8| 512GB| £1,499| £370

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra| 512GB| £1,039| £490

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra| 1TB| £1,399| £150

Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus| 256GB| £1,099| £80

Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus| 512GB| £1,269| £80

Samsung Galaxy S26| 512GB| £759| £370

Google Pixel 11| 256GB| £749| Up to £130

Google Pixel 11| 512GB| £899| Up to £130

Google Pixel 11 Pro| 256GB| £999| £80

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL| 256GB| £1,099| £180

Prices and discounts may change depending on stock, retailer promotions, and storage configuration. Buyers should check the final price before completing an order.

Which Smartphone Is Worth Considering?

Choosing between these smartphones depends on your budget and how you plan to use the device.

The Apple iPhone Duo is aimed at customers who want Apple's first foldable smartphone and are willing to pay a premium for its design and hardware. However, reported delivery delays could make it less suitable for buyers who need a new phone immediately.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra offers a substantial reported discount and a triple camera system, while the standard Galaxy Z Fold8 provides a similar folding concept at a slightly lower price.

For shoppers who prefer a conventional flagship, the Galaxy S26 Ultra offers premium hardware and Privacy Display without the additional complexity of a foldable design. The standard Galaxy S26 is a more affordable Samsung option.

Google's Pixel 11 lineup provides alternatives for Android users, with the standard Pixel 11 starting at £749 for the 256GB version. The Pro models are worth comparing if camera hardware and premium features are priorities.

Before buying, consider more than the headline discount. Storage capacity, warranty coverage, retailer reliability, software preferences, camera performance, and expected delivery dates can all affect the overall value of a smartphone.

FAQs :

1. How much does the Apple iPhone Duo cost?

The Apple iPhone Duo starts at £1,999 for the 256GB model in the UK. It is available for pre-order through Apple's UK website, although delivery estimates may vary depending on availability.

2. Why are iPhone Duo delivery dates delayed?

The iPhone Duo reportedly sold out quickly in several regions following the opening of pre-orders. As a result, some estimated delivery dates have moved to late January.

3. How much discount has the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 received?

The 512GB Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 is listed at £1,499 on Amazon UK after a reported £370 price reduction. Prices and availability may change.

4. Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra cheaper than the iPhone Duo?

Yes. Based on the reported prices, the 512GB Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra costs £1,509 after a £560 discount, while the iPhone Duo starts at £1,999. The Samsung model is therefore £490 cheaper than Apple's starting-price model.

5. Which Samsung Galaxy S26 model has the biggest discount?

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra with 512GB of storage has a reported £490 price reduction, bringing its listed price to £1,039 on Amazon UK.

6. How much does the Google Pixel 11 cost?

The Google Pixel 11 starts at £749 for the 256GB version on Amazon UK. The 512GB model is listed at £899, with discounts varying by configuration.

7. Which is better, the iPhone Duo or the Galaxy Z Fold8?

The choice depends on your preferences. The iPhone Duo may appeal to buyers who prefer Apple's ecosystem, while the Galaxy Z Fold8 offers a discounted foldable alternative running Samsung's Android-based software. Compare the camera systems, software features, storage, price, and availability before buying.

8. Are the smartphone discounts permanent?

No. Smartphone deals can change according to retailer promotions, stock levels, and storage configurations. Check the latest listing on the retailer's website before placing an order.

9. Where can I buy the iPhone Duo in the UK?

According to the supplied report, the iPhone Duo is available for pre-order through the official Apple UK website. Check Apple's website for current availability and delivery estimates.

10. Which smartphone offers the best value for money?

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The best-value option depends on your budget and requirements. The standard Google Pixel 11 and Samsung Galaxy S26 are worth comparing for conventional smartphone use, while the discounted Galaxy Z Fold8 models may appeal to people who want a foldable display.

Looking for your next smartphone? The latest iPhone Duo launch and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 and Google Pixel 11 discounts offer plenty of options to compare.

Before you buy, check the latest prices, explore the features, and choose the smartphone that best fits your budget and needs.

Which smartphone would you choose: the Apple iPhone Duo, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8, or Google Pixel 11? Share your thoughts in the comments, and follow our blog for more technology news, smartphone comparisons, and the latest deals.

Final Thoughts:

The launch of Apple's first foldable iPhone has added another major competitor to the premium smartphone market. However, the iPhone Duo's £1,999 starting price and reported delivery delays mean that some buyers may prefer to explore other options.

Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold8 have received substantial price reductions, while the Galaxy S26 family offers discounts on traditional flagship phones. Google's Pixel 11 lineup also provides alternatives for customers looking for premium Android devices at different price points.

For anyone shopping for a new smartphone in the UK, the current deals make it worthwhile to compare features and prices before making a decision. The best purchase is not necessarily the phone with the largest discount, but the device that offers the right combination of performance, features, availability, and value for money.

Note: Prices, availability, and specifications in this article reflect the supplied report dated October 17, 2026. Confirm details with the relevant retailer before purchasing.