The iPhone Duo pre-orders opened today, but customers who weren't there at the start likely can't get one before 2027. That makes the iPhone Duo launch a massive success, but it also reflects a missed opportunity for Apple.
The iPhone Duo had a flawless product introduction, sparking more excitement than any recent model. Since the September 9 unveiling, its marketing rollout has been among the best Apple has done. The company knew it had a uniquely special product and gave it first-class treatment. The buzz extends beyond tech early adopters and the ultra-wealthy, reaching current iPhone users and even some Android users.
The buzz was confirmed by a near-instant sell-out after pre-orders went live. Current shipping estimates for new orders have been pushed back to late January 2027, more than three months of backorder, an unprecedented delay.
The launch is both a huge win and a missed opportunity. It is remarkable that Apple introduced a foldable iPhone costing $2,000+ and sold out instantly. But Apple cannot deliver anywhere close to a supply-demand balance for such a desired, ultra-premium product. Ideally, Apple would meet initial demand within four to six weeks. Instead, the delay frustrates customers and sacrifices significant revenue. Overall the launch is a major win, but fully capitalizing on the marketing plan would have been an even bigger one.
Source: 9to5Mac · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing