iPhone Duo: The Long Wait Until January 2027

The Highly Anticipated Launch of the iPhone Duo

Anticipation for the release of the iPhone Duo reached a fever pitch as pre-orders opened at 8:00 a.m. ET. The demand was so high that within seconds, shipping times were already slipping into November. By 8:30 a.m., all configurations and colors of the iPhone Duo, including the $3,200 2 TB model, were showing shipping dates as far out as January 25, 2027.

Despite the initial rush, Apple has provided a glimmer of hope for those still hoping to get their hands on the foldable iPhone. A note on the website advises customers to “Check back for availability on 10.24” for potential in-store pickup or same-day delivery options. This differs from previous iPhone pre-orders, where in-store pickups were still available after pre-orders opened.

While the exact in-store availability remains uncertain, the fast-selling nature of the pre-orders suggests that securing an iPhone Duo on launch day may require some effort. Apple typically sets aside some stock for walk-in customers, but availability may be limited, especially at smaller stores that may not even receive many demo units.

While Apple attributes the high demand for the iPhone Duo to consumer interest, reports from the supply chain suggest production challenges may also be a factor. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had previously predicted delays in smooth shipments until 2027, a forecast that seems to have been accurate given the current shipping estimates.

Initial reports indicated that Apple aimed to sell 20 million units of the iPhone Duo by the end of 2023. However, recent estimates suggest that the actual number of units ordered before the end of 2026 may be closer to 8 million, leading to current shortages in supply.

Despite the high price point, with the iPhone Duo starting at $2,000, the sell-out indicates strong demand for the device. However, the sales figures pale in comparison to the projected sales of the iPhone 18 Pro models, which are expected to reach 20 to 30 million units each.

The iPhone Duo’s popularity places it in a category similar to the “iPhone Air,” reflecting both its price and consumer interest. Analysts predict that the iPhone Duo will outperform the previous iPhone Air model, which faced production cuts due to lukewarm reception.

For consumers eager to get their hands on an iPhone Duo before the holiday season, Apple’s retail stores may be the best bet. Regular shipments are expected, with the possibility of using the Safari Notify Me feature to track stock availability.