Some reports even suggest that Apple Stores may have no iPhone Duo units available for direct purchase when the device officially goes on sale.

iPhone Duo sells out within minutes, deliveries slip to 2027

Apple has never disclosed exactly how many iPhones it prepares for customers on the first day of preorders.

However, several reports indicate that manufacturing challenges have constrained iPhone Duo supplies from the outset.

Despite those limitations, Apple's first foldable iPhone reportedly sold out within minutes of preorders opening.

In response, Apple issued a carefully worded statement to several media outlets, acknowledging the unusually strong demand for its new device.

"Preorders for iPhone Duo, our first foldable iPhone, have truly exceeded our expectations. We are doing everything we can to get this revolutionary product into customers' hands as quickly as possible and will continue accepting orders online. Our teams look forward to welcoming customers to Apple Stores around the world, where they can experience iPhone Duo and the entire new iPhone lineup firsthand," Apple said.

Although Apple continues to accept online orders, estimated iPhone Duo deliveries have now slipped to around January 25, 2027.

This means customers placing orders now could face a wait of approximately three months after the device's scheduled retail launch.

Previously, Apple briefly offered customers the option to order online and collect their devices at a store.

However, that option disappeared as delivery estimates moved further into the future.

Instead, Apple's ordering page now asks customers to check availability again on October 24, one day after the iPhone Duo is scheduled to arrive in stores.

Apple Stores may have no iPhone Duo units for walk-in buyers

One of the biggest questions surrounding the launch is whether customers will be able to purchase an iPhone Duo directly from an Apple Store on release day.

Traditionally, Apple has reserved a certain amount of inventory for physical stores when the first preorders begin reaching customers.

This has allowed buyers without reservations to purchase a new iPhone on launch day, provided they arrive early enough.

This time, however, the situation could be significantly different.

According to MacRumors, Apple Store employees have been told not to expect iPhone Duo inventory to be available for direct sales.

Meanwhile, CNBC reported that Apple declined to confirm whether its stores would receive units for walk-in customers.

If these reports are accurate, the iPhone Duo could become one of Apple's hardest-to-buy iPhone models in recent years, particularly for customers who missed the initial preorder window.

Nevertheless, Apple has not officially confirmed that its stores will have no inventory for walk-in purchases.

The reports should therefore be treated as unverified rather than definitive evidence that the entire Apple Store network will be unable to sell the device on launch day.

Another detail highlighted by AppleInsider is that a selection of Apple Stores in the United States, Europe and China are scheduled to open earlier than usual on the iPhone Duo's release date.

Early openings might normally suggest that Apple expects large crowds or has prepared enough inventory for in-store purchases.

However, the extended hours do not necessarily mean iPhone Duo units will be available to walk-in customers.

Apple also routinely extends store hours on major product launch days to accommodate customers who have scheduled preorder pickups.

Pickup appointments are spread throughout the day, helping stores manage higher customer volumes without becoming overcrowded.

As a result, the earlier opening times could simply be intended to serve customers with confirmed preorders rather than indicate additional stock for direct sales.

With preorder demand surging and delivery estimates stretching into late January 2027, customers hoping to obtain an iPhone Duo soon may have little choice but to order online and accept a lengthy wait.

Those planning to visit an Apple Store on launch day should check local inventory before traveling rather than assume the device will be available for immediate purchase.

The situation highlights the strong interest in Apple's first foldable iPhone while raising questions about the company's ability to meet demand during the initial launch period.

When supplies cannot keep pace with preorders, purchasing a new premium device can become considerably more difficult.

Hai Phong