Apple Opens iPhone Duo Pre-Order Prep Amid Supply Crunch and Criticism

Key points

Apple allows users to pre-configure iPhone Duo orders, including color, storage, and payment methods, from October 12 to 15.

Official pre-orders begin on October 16 at 5:00 AM PT, with the device launching on October 23.

Supply is severely constrained, with assembly yields at 60% and production orders increased by 30% to 10 million units.

Critics, including Nothing CEO Carl Pei, argue the $1,999 price is unjustified due to the lack of Face ID and a telephoto lens.

Apple is reportedly prioritizing Face ID and telephoto features for future iPhone Duo models, possibly the third generation.

Background

Apple introduced the 'Get Ready' pre-order feature to mitigate the impact of limited initial supply, with analysts citing assembly yields of just 60% and a projected 6 million units for 2026. While the device launches on October 23 at a starting price of $1,999, critics argue that the iPhone 18 Pro and iPad mini offer superior features for a lower combined cost. Apple has since increased production orders by 30% to approximately 10 million units in response to unexpectedly high demand.

How outlets are covering it

9to5Mac and AppleInsider focus on the logistical aspects of the pre-order process, emphasizing the 'Get Ready' feature to streamline checkout amid high demand and supply constraints. AppleInsider notes that supplies will be profoundly constrained, with shipping likely to slip back immediately. PhoneArena, however, highlights critical perspectives, with Nothing CEO Carl Pei calling the iPhone Duo a 'waste of money' due to the absence of Face ID and a telephoto lens. PhoneArena also notes that Apple is reportedly working on adding these features in future models, with Mark Gurman suggesting they may appear in the third generation.

Why it matters

The iPhone Duo's pre-order process highlights the challenges Apple faces in managing supply and demand for its first foldable device. The 'Get Ready' feature is a strategic move to ensure customers can secure their orders quickly, given the severe supply constraints. The criticism regarding the device's features and price underscores the competitive landscape in the foldable smartphone market, where competitors like Samsung and Google offer more comprehensive features at similar or lower price points.

What to watch

Official pre-orders for the iPhone Duo will begin on October 16 at 5:00 AM PT. The device will launch on October 23. Apple is expected to continue managing supply constraints, with production orders increased by 30% to 10 million units. Future models of the iPhone Duo are expected to include Face ID and a telephoto lens, with the third generation potentially featuring both.