Don't Queue for the iPhone Duo: Apple Issues Warning
Shortages Confirmed
Excitement surrounding Apple’s new smartphone, the iPhone Duo, has reached a fever pitch, but the company’s plans may disappoint many prospective buyers. Reports indicate that Apple has issued strict guidance to its retail staff: warn customers that on October 23, the official launch day, purchasing the device in-store without a pre-order will be virtually impossible. Company representatives state that in-store stock will not be available, meaning those who simply show up to buy the device will likely leave empty-handed.
Production Hurdles and Demand
Issues regarding the iPhone Duo began as early as September. At that time, reports suggested that production rates were limited to just a few hundred units per day—a negligible amount for a global scale. Although Apple managed to accumulate enough stock for the October 23 premiere, the supply chain remains extremely constrained.
The severity of the situation became clear as soon as pre-orders opened. Within minutes, delivery estimates surpassed the launch date, and within half an hour, every configuration on the official website was sold out. Currently, online orders are not expected to arrive until January, meaning the smartphone is effectively sold out for the Christmas period.
What Buyers Should Know
Apple’s official website advises customers to check for in-store availability starting October 24, though this does not guarantee that the device will be in stock. The company currently describes demand as "extraordinary" and claims it is doing its best to get devices to customers as quickly as possible.
The starting price for the iPhone Duo in the US is $1,999. Since physical queues on launch day will likely be futile, the only path for those wishing to purchase the device is to secure an online pre-order and wait. In markets like Georgia, where official Apple stores are not present, the arrival of the device will likely be further delayed, as the global shortage will primarily impact official service centres in major markets first.