Apple iPhone Duo pre-orders face delayed shipping dates
Customers who missed the earliest iPhone Duo pre-order window now see delivery estimates in late January, well after the October launch.
Apple began accepting pre-orders for the iPhone Duo in the United States and several other markets at 5 a.m. Pacific Time on October 22. Early buyers who placed orders at the start of the window are slated to receive their devices on the launch day, Friday, October 23. However, by 5:30 a.m. Pacific Time the online store was already showing a shipping date of January 25 for all configurations, including 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB and 2 TB models in both Star White and Night Sky finishes.
Apple’s shipping estimates combine supply and demand factors, and the exact amount of inventory available at the start of pre-orders has not been disclosed. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman noted that supply is expected to be limited, citing earlier reports of manufacturing challenges that could reduce production yields.
Because the revised delivery window extends into 2027, the iPhone Duo will not be available for in-time Christmas delivery through Apple’s online store. Prospective buyers may still try to obtain the phone on launch day by visiting Apple retail locations, though inventory is expected to be very limited for walk-in customers. The device is also sold by authorized resellers such as Best Buy.
Apple briefly offered in-store pickup for online pre-orders, but the option has been removed. Customers are advised to check back on Saturday, October 24 for further pickup information.