Apple iPhone Duo Pre-Orders Face Delays Into 2027 As Demand Surges

Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, has seen delivery estimates pushed into December and beyond within minutes of pre-orders opening on October 16, 2026. The delays point to strong initial demand and limited launch-day supplies for the premium device, which starts at USD 1,999 in the United States and is scheduled to reach stores on October 23.

According to a report by Bloomberg, cited by The Edge Malaysia, Apple’s online store showed extended shipping estimates across both colour options and all storage configurations. Some customers also reported delays despite completing their device selections in advance.

Apple iPhone Duo Pre-Orders See Immediate Delays

Pre-orders opened on Friday, October 16, at 8 am Eastern Time in the United States. Demand quickly outpaced the available launch inventory, with delivery estimates moving into December and beyond shortly after orders began.

Apple retail stores also reportedly ran out of launch-day inventory almost immediately after pre-orders opened. The situation contrasts with the September launch of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, when customers who placed orders promptly faced a smoother purchasing process. How To Pre-Book iPhone Duo in India: Step-by-Step Guide, Dates and Pricing.

The extended delivery timelines could make the iPhone Duo difficult to secure on its October 23 release date. However, long waits alone do not establish the overall level of consumer demand, as constrained production can also contribute to shortages.

iPhone Duo Price and Storage Options

The iPhone Duo starts at USD 1,999 for the 256GB variant, placing it among Apple's most expensive smartphones. The device is available in Star White and Night Sky colour options, with storage capacities ranging from 256GB to 2TB. Apple iPhone Duo Price in India Revealed: Check 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB Variants Cost.

Apple has positioned the foldable smartphone as a premium addition to its iPhone lineup. Its design allows the device to open into a larger display for viewing content and multitasking while retaining a compact form when folded.

The phone is scheduled to launch in stores on October 23, with Apple expected to offer some inventory to customers purchasing directly at retail locations. Availability is likely to vary by store and configuration.

Supply Constraints Could Affect Launch Availability

The initial delays come amid reports of manufacturing challenges affecting the iPhone Duo's production. Apple relies on its supply chain partners to manufacture and assemble the device, and production yields are an important factor in determining how quickly supply can meet demand.

Counterpoint Research previously estimated that Apple could sell around six million iPhone Duo units in 2026, depending on how successfully production increases. The figure remains an estimate rather than a confirmed sales target.

Reports published earlier this week also indicated that Apple had increased its orders for the device by about 30% in response to stronger-than-expected demand. However, the extent to which the reported increase will improve availability in the coming weeks remains uncertain.

Apple Could See Renewed Interest in Launch-Day Purchases

Apple typically keeps some inventory for customers visiting its retail stores on launch day. If that practice continues for the iPhone Duo, prospective buyers may have another opportunity to purchase the device without waiting for online orders to arrive.

However, limited supplies could mean that customers will need to check availability with individual Apple stores and authorised retailers. Wireless carriers may also offer alternative purchasing options, depending on their stock and financing plans.

The launch is an important test for Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone market, where established manufacturers such as Samsung and Google already offer competing devices. Strong initial interest could help Apple establish a presence in the category, although production capacity and sustained consumer demand will determine the device's longer-term performance.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 16, 2026 08:08 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).