Apple iPhone Duo: Limited Stock Expected at Launch
Apple warns of supply constraints as the new foldable device hits shelves.
Awaiting the iPhone Duo: Why Purchasing Will Be Difficult
Official sales of Apple’s new foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, begin on October 23. However, the company has announced that those planning to purchase the device without a pre-order may face disappointment. Apple states that in-store stock will be extremely limited due to "extraordinarily" high demand for pre-orders placed since last week.
Where the Device Will Be Available
Limited quantities will be available in the US, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Mexico, Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, and the UK. Some stores in Italy will also have stock, though the company has not specified exact locations. In Macau, sales will take place only on October 23 in limited quantities.
Stricter restrictions apply in France, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and the UAE. In these countries, it will be impossible to purchase the smartphone by simply visiting a store on launch day. Customers must book an appointment via the Apple online store, though the system is currently prompting users to check back on October 24, leaving it unclear if reservations will be available on the first day of sales.
Security and Preventing Speculation
Apple attributes these restrictions to two reasons: managing crowds and combating scalpers. Consequently, each customer is limited to purchasing a maximum of two iPhone Duo units. For those who have already placed pre-orders, there is good news: many delivery dates have been brought forward, despite previous concerns that shipments might be delayed until January.
What Lies Behind the iPhone Duo’s Price
The iPhone Duo features a 7.6-inch foldable LTPO OLED screen (120Hz), a 5.4-inch external display, the A20 Pro chipset, 12GB of RAM, and up to 2TB of internal storage. The device includes 48MP main and ultra-wide cameras, a 4,883 mAh battery, and an IP68 protection rating. The starting price for the device is $1,999.
For consumers in Georgia who typically purchase Apple products through international retail networks or importers, this shortage may mean that the first units to arrive in the country could come with higher price tags or significant delays.