Technology

Apple’s new foldable isn’t even out yet, but Android is copying it

From foldable shapes to hero colours, you can already spot Apple's fingerprints on rival phones

Published September 10, 2026
Apple’s new foldable isn’t even out yet, but Android is copying it
Apple’s new foldable isn’t even out yet, but Android is copying it

You'd think Android phone makers would at least wait for a new iPhone to actually launch before copying it. They didn't.

Samsung beat Apple to the "passport-style" foldable look with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 back in August, months before Apple's foldable, officially named the iPhone Duo, not the "iPhone Ultra" you might have seen floating around, made its debut this week.

Following close on its heels was Xiaomi with the launch of the Xiaomi 18 Fold, which now sports a look that would be difficult not to label as familiar. You would have to compare all three side by side to identify them, based on the logos alone.

There’s no need to wait for the copycats to make an informed guess on this one. Apple has confirmed that the signature color of the iPhone 18 Pro will be Burgundy, together with Deep Black, Silver, and Glacier Blue, a shift from the previous year’s eye-catching Cosmic Orange.

If you kept track of events last year, then you already know how this works out. As soon as Cosmic Orange was established as the hero color of the iPhone 17 Pro, orange-colored phones flooded the market.

The Honor 600 had such a pronounced look that we labeled it "Android iPhone" in the review. Then came the Oppo Find X9 Ultra with its own distinct orange hue, followed by the Redmi Turbo 5 Max – not including all the orange cases, earphones, and other accessories that came in with them.

While Burgundy may be more subtle than Cosmic Orange, it makes it slightly less sensational to copy. 

Pareesa Afreen
Pareesa Afreen is a reporter and sub editor specialising in technology coverage, with 3 years of experience. She reports on digital innovation, gadgets, and emerging tech trends while ensuring clarity and accuracy through her editorial role, delivering accessible and engaging stories for a fast-evolving digital audience.