Apple’s official Chinese Weibo account (@AppleSupport) accidentally posted a promotional video for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 today. The since-deleted post featured the foldable phone in action with the caption: “By setting parental controls on your device, you can manage downloads and purchase requests initiated by your children from the App Store.”
Apple’s Weibo Account Accidentally Promotes Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7
Reported by renowned leaker @UniverseIce, who shared a video showing Samsung’s flip phone displayed under Apple’s verified Weibo handle. The video highlighted the Galaxy Z Flip7’s folding mechanism and cover screen features – an awkward promotion from Apple’s own support channel.
The post’s parental controls caption unintentionally underscored Apple’s own oversight. Ironically, the feature meant to “manage unintended actions” failed to prevent Apple’s social team from publishing a competitor’s ad. The error stayed live for ~30 minutes before being scrubbed.
Damage control mode:
- Apple deleted the post within an hour
- No explanation or apology issued
- Samsung hasn’t acknowledged the accidental promo
This isn’t Apple’s first social media stumble in China. In 2023, its Weibo account mistakenly posted an iPhone 14 Pro ad featuring a Huawei P20 Pro photo. The gaffe highlights the risks of global brands outsourcing social media management in critical markets.
While accidental competitor promotions happen, Apple’s pairing of a Samsung Flip7 video with parental control advice created instant meme fuel. For now, @UniverseIce’s evidence remains the only proof – and Samsung just got free viral marketing from its biggest rival.
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