Crowds and line-cutting mark chaotic launch of iPhone 18 Pro in Sydney
Customers gathered early outside Apple’s Sydney flagship store for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max launch, where a line-cutter claimed to be the first buyer, while Apple unveiled new devices including a foldable iPhone Duo prototype.
Customers arrived as early as 6 a.m. outside Apple’s flagship store on George Street in Sydney to secure a place in line for the worldwide debut of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, which opened at 8 a.m. on Friday. A 20-year-old who had camped overnight watched another shopper cut ahead of him and announce loudly that he was the first person in the world to own the new models.
The early arriver told reporters that obtaining the first unit of Apple’s latest product, which features a 2-nanometer A20 Pro chip and a 48-megapixel camera, was “incredibly exciting.” He added that the launch reflects Apple’s strategic direction and expressed optimism about the company’s future.
Other early arrivals, including a 26-year-old and a 24-year-old, arrived at 6 a.m. and discussed their preferences for the new color options – a returning glacier-blue and a new burgundy shade. Both said they were eager to see the devices in person.
Inside the store, attendees were given a preview of Apple’s first foldable phone, dubbed the iPhone Duo, ahead of its scheduled release on October 23. Influencers and content creators were also present, showcasing the new products on social media platforms.
Apple’s launch introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max with a variable-aperture camera system, the A20 Pro processor, and extended battery life claims of up to 34 hours of video playback for the Pro and 43 hours for the Pro Max. The devices also feature an updated Siri powered by Apple Intelligence on iOS 27 and a smaller dynamic island. Additional announcements included the Apple Watch Ultra 4, AirPods 5, and upcoming nationwide releases of new Mac mini and Mac Studio models.