'Life is a race': iPhone 18 queue sparks meme fest
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max launched in India, sparking queues outside Apple stores and a wave of online memes. Customers formed lines before dawn in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with some even arriving overnight. The scenes quickly became fodder for jokes, incorporating references to Bollywood films like 3 Idiots and Baghban.
One joke likened the rush to life itself, copying the line from 3 Idiots. Another meme contrasted various queues in India, noting that the difference was what people were waiting for. Images showed people queuing at different Apple stores across the cities, with some customers traveling from distant locations. For many, the launch was less about upgrading their phone and more about experiencing Apple's annual event, akin to a festival.
Some pre-ordered their devices but still queued to be first in line for the new model. Tech enthusiasts with YouTube channels were also present, interested in the camera improvements. The meme-fest extended beyond the queues, with social media debates about inflation and spending habits juxtaposed with pictures of iPhone enthusiasts.
Jokes contrasted ration lines with iPhone lines, highlighting Indians' familiarity with queuing but differing purposes. The iPhone launch quickly became a larger commentary on consumer culture and the willingness of some to wait for a new gadget. Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max went on sale at 8 am in India's six retail outlets, with stores remaining open until 10 pm.
Written by urgent.news from The Economic Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
