Apple Promises Only 'Limited' iPhone Duo Stock for Walk-In Buyers at Launch
Seven Lights
Image: The Verge.
Apple said it will have only a limited number of its new foldable iPhone Duo phones available for walk-in customers when the device launches on Friday, October 23, according to a Reuters report cited by The Verge. Online preorders for the phone sold out quickly, with some delivery estimates extending into next year.
“On Friday morning, our teams look forward to welcoming customers at Apple Stores to experience iPhone Duo and the incredible iPhone line-up for themselves,” Apple said in a statement to Reuters. “Apple Stores will have limited iPhone Duo available for walk-in customers, and we’re working hard to get this revolutionary new product into customers’ hands as quickly as possible.” The Verge reported that walk-in availability will be limited in the US, Canada, Australia, Mexico, and most of the UK and Europe, and that customers in those countries will also be able to pick up online orders in store; customers in mainland China, France, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Malaysia and South Korea were listed by Reuters as facing different arrangements.
Reviewers published ahead of launch were broadly positive about the hardware but flagged software gaps. WIRED’s Julian Chokkattu rated the Duo 7/10, praising its “polished hardware with a graceful hinge,” a matte nanotexture finish that hides the fold crease, IP68 dust and water resistance and reliable battery life, while calling the phone heavy and noting that many apps are not yet optimized for its 7.6-inch inner screen. Developers need to target the iOS 27.1 software development kit for full compatibility, and several popular apps, including Instagram, Threads and Slack, have already shipped updates for the larger display, WIRED reported. The Duo arrives seven years after Samsung’s first Galaxy Fold. TechRadar also published a review of the device.