Long lines form as Apple launches its first foldable iPhone Duo
Apple's inaugural foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, began selling on Friday, prompting extended queues at stores in the Philadelphia area.
Apple released its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, on Friday morning, prompting customers to line up outside stores in Ardmore and Center City, Philadelphia, as early as 11 p.m. the previous night. Some shoppers reported waiting more than 12 hours before the store opened.
"Imma open it up. Let it start booting itself up, then I'm going to sleep for sure," said Allister Surgenor, who traveled from Harrisburg and camped near the Ardmore location.
"I told myself if I see one person out here waiting, then I'm getting out and waiting. I've been waiting for like seven years," said Aaron, another line-stander.
Apple describes the Duo as featuring a 7.6-inch foldable display, the largest on an iPhone to date, and the thinnest overall. The device supports the Apple Pencil, offers split-screen multitasking, and runs a new version of iOS with upgraded camera capabilities. The company's chief executive stated that the Duo "will redefine the experience of using a foldable phone."
Retail locations in the Delaware Valley opened two hours early to accommodate demand, and Apple noted that in-store inventory is limited after online pre-orders sold out quickly. Prices are expected to range from $1,900 to $3,000 depending on storage options.