Apple’s first foldable iPhone isn’t reaching customers until October 23, but getting one delivered on launch day is already proving difficult. Pre-orders opened Friday, October 16, with limited inventory pushing some delivery estimates into 2027.
Starting at $1,999 for 256GB, the iPhone Duo is Apple’s most expensive iPhone yet. It comes in star white and night sky, with a 5.4-inch outer display that unfolds into a 7.6-inch multitasking screen.
At 5.2mm thick when unfolded, it’s also Apple’s thinnest iPhone. Its aluminum and titanium construction includes ceramic-fiber antenna inserts, and the hinge alone contains more than 100 components.
The folding design comes with compromises, including Touch ID instead of Face ID and a dual-camera system without the dedicated telephoto lens found on the iPhone 18 Pro.
Launch-Day Deliveries Are Already Hard to Find
Supply problems became apparent almost immediately after pre-orders opened at 8 a.m. Customers ordering just minutes later were already seeing delivery estimates slip into November and December, with some dates extending into 2027.
Apple has described demand as “extraordinary,” although production constraints are also contributing to the delays.
The decision to begin pre-orders despite severe supply shortages has drawn criticism, particularly as customers struggle to secure launch-day delivery.
Carriers may offer another option. Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile are accepting pre-orders, and some buyers have reportedly secured October 23 delivery dates through carriers after receiving later estimates from Apple.
Their trade-in promotions may also be more generous, though discounts often come with installment agreements or service requirements.
The $1,999 Price Isn’t the Only Expense
Apple’s 24-month lease program through Klarna starts at $57.99 per month, while eligible iPhone 13 and newer trade-ins can receive between $175 and $885 in credit.
Repair costs are another concern. With its complex hinge and folding display, some out-of-warranty Duo repairs can cost as much as $1,499, making AppleCare+ worth considering.
Finding one in stores on launch day may be just as difficult as ordering online. Apple retail employees have reportedly been instructed to discourage customers from visiting without a confirmed pre-order, as walk-in inventory isn’t expected on October 23.
Buyers still hoping to get the Duo this fall may have a better chance checking availability through carriers than waiting for Apple’s delivery estimates to improve.
