Samsung says a Galaxy Fold was bought under the name "Tim Cook," The Verge reported on Friday. The claim, which Samsung has not backed with evidence in the reporting available, points at Apple's chief executive by name. Neither Apple nor Tim Cook has responded to the assertion in the material reviewed.
The claim lands as Apple moves into the foldable market itself. Apple has unveiled a foldable device called the iPhone Duo, according to the company. Tom's Guide published an interview with Apple CEO John Ternus about how the iPhone Duo was made, in which Ternus described a moment of recognition during development. The Verge's report on the Samsung claim does not say whether the order was genuine or a stunt.
Coverage of Apple's entry has focused on where the parts come from. Asia News Network reported that Apple's first foldable may depend on South Korean suppliers more than any previous iPhone. The New York Times raised a separate question, noting that foldable phones have not sold well broadly and asking why Apple would sell one anyway. Together, the reports frame Apple's launch as a bet against current demand and a test of its supply chain.
Samsung's Galaxy Fold was among the first mainstream foldable phones, giving the company a claim to the category Apple is now entering.
What to watch next: whether Apple or Tim Cook addresses Samsung's claim, and how the iPhone Duo performs against established foldables.
