Apple's first foldable smartphone is facing a major supply challenge after preorders opened on Friday (October 16, 2026) with delivery estimates quickly slipping into December and beyond. The iPhone Duo, priced at USD 1,999 in the US, attracted strong early interest, making it difficult for customers to secure the device for its October 23 launch.
The delays highlight the challenge Apple faces in balancing demand with production capacity for its first foldable phone. According to Bloomberg's report, shipping estimates on Apple's online store extended significantly within minutes of preorders opening, affecting both available colors and all storage configurations.
Apple opened preorders for the iPhone Duo at 8 AM in New York on Friday. However, customers who attempted to place their orders soon after the sale began encountered extended delivery timelines.
The delay affected models with storage capacities ranging from 256GB to 2TB. Even customers who had prepared their preferred color and storage configuration in advance reported difficulty securing an early delivery.
Apple's retail stores also ran out of their initial launch-day allocations shortly after preorders began. The situation contrasts with the September launch of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, when customers who ordered promptly generally had a smoother purchasing experience.
The rapid shift in delivery estimates points to a combination of strong demand and limited availability. However, it remains difficult to determine how much each factor contributes to the delays.
Manufacturing a foldable smartphone presents additional challenges compared with conventional devices. The folding display, specialized hinge and compact internal design require precise engineering and production processes.
Counterpoint Research estimated in September 2026 that Apple could sell around six million iPhone Duo units in 2026. Whether the company can meet demand will depend partly on how quickly production expands.
Apple's first foldable iPhone features a 7.6-inch inner display and a 5.4-inch outer screen. The company says its design combines a large viewing area with a compact form when folded.
The device runs on Apple's A20 Pro chip and supports multitasking, gaming and content consumption on its larger display. It is available in Star White and Night Sky, with storage options ranging from 256GB to 2TB. The starting price of USD 1,999 makes it Apple's most expensive iPhone to date.
Also Read: ‘Hello, Mark’: Apple’s iPhone Duo May Greet Buyers by Name
Apple's retail stores may still have limited stock available for walk-in customers when the phone launches on October 23. However, availability is expected to be tight, and buyers may need to check individual stores for stock.
The preorder rush offers an early indication of consumer interest in Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone market. Still, the company's longer-term success will depend on production capacity, customer experience and whether buyers consider the premium price worthwhile.