Apple's Double 11 Sales Spark Controversy on Chinese Social Media

In the midst of China's massive online shopping festival, known as Single's Day or Double 11, Apple's official online store has sparked a heated debate on social media platform Weibo. The controversy surrounds the sudden discounts offered on the latest iPhone models during the last two hours of the sales period, causing many consumers to feel betrayed and expressing their dissatisfaction through various reactions and comments.

The alleged discounts were offered in the form of coupons, according to Apple's statement, which clarified that the prices fell due to platform-issued coupons rather than actual price reductions on store products. However, this explanation did not sit well with many consumers who felt misled by the company's actions.

One netizen expressed their frustration by stating, "Why does everyone end up reducing 300, I can buy expensive, but not too expensive @ Black Cat Complaint." Another user shared their dilemma about choosing between domestic phone brands OPPO and Vivo, saying, "I am not a 'traitor' nor a 'patriotizer,' I have never been morally captured when buying a phone, so for years I have repeatedly jumped back and forth between OPPO and Vivo. The current one is using Vivo, and the next one considers the new OPPO Renoe 11, which is said to be released this month."

Moreover, a number of users vented their anger towards JD.com's handling of Apple products during Double 11. One user lamented, "Do you know that JD's double 11 is selling Apple products at different prices every day? It's not even allowed to use the price protection, so who cares if someone falls in love with it. I won't use JD anymore after this."

The sudden discounts also led to queries about refund policies, with one user asking, "So, can it be returned after all?" Another expressed their disappointment, saying, "It's all the same; everyone has their preferences." A user who felt injured by the situation shared, "I've been hurt here twice from next door. Who can understand?"

Some netizens even took to comparing Apple with competitor brands like Huawei, with one user posting, "Huawei can make all Apple users buy Apple at a lower price, and iPhone fans should support Huawei instead."

The controversy on Weibo surrounding Apple's Double 11 sales has sparked a heated debate among consumers, with many expressing disappointment, anger, and frustration over the perceived betrayal. As online shopping continues to grow in China, incidents like these highlight the importance of transparency and fairness in e-commerce practices. While Apple's official statement clarified that the discounts were in the form of coupons, it appears that the damage has already been done as many consumers feel misled by the company's actions.

In a time where consumer trust is paramount, it remains to be seen how these events will impact Apple's reputation and future sales in China. The reactions from Weibo netizens underscore the importance of clear communication between companies and their customers, especially during major shopping events like Double 11.