In keeping with tradition, Apple has taken down the Apple Store this morning ahead of the iPhone Duo going up for preorder. If you are waiting to buy the new Apple foldable, be sure to log on at 5 AM Eastern Time.

All reports point to constrained supply and relatively high demand, so everyone is anticipating that Apple will run out of launch day stock very quickly indeed. If you want a Duo for launch day, on October 23, you need to be ready to buy at 5 AM.

The iPhone Duo is Apple’s first foldable, featuring a 7.6-inch inner display and a 5.4-inch outer display when closed. Apple has engineered the product to feature a minimal crease when unfolded, aided by a custom hinge design and a nano-texture matte finish on the inner display.

It is powered by Apple’s latest A20 Pro chip, and should offer computational performance in the ballpark of the iPhone 18 Pro line. The cameras are a downgrade though, due to the device’s thinner design when unfolded, and the Duo only has Touch ID rather than Face ID biometrics.

The Duo comes in two colors, Night Sky and Star White, and starts at $1999 for the entry-level 256 GB model.

iPhone Duo will launch with iOS 27.1, which will include a bunch of software UI optimisations for the product’s unusual form factor. This includes a new vertical bar where all the controls in updated apps appear along the right-edge of the phone, making them easy to tap with your thumb.

All of Apple’s apps have also been updated to smoothly expand between the outer display and the larger inner display, and app developers are also submitting compatibility updates as we speak.

While foldables in general make up a small percentage of overall smartphone sales, Apple’s entrance into the category is expected to make a mark. We think the Duo will be a big hit, at least relatively to the competition.

Whether Apple can manufacture enough of them will be the problem, at least for the first few months. Reports have indicated Apple’s suppliers will ship about 7-10 million Duos for the rest of 2026.

My favorite Apple gear and accessories 

• AirPods 5: great noise cancellation earbuds and new lower price
• SwitchBot Wallet Tracker: never lose your wallet again with this Find My-enabled tracker
• Eve Outdoor Cam: Reliable and sleek HomeKit camera with integrated floodlight 

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