Apple to offer limited iPhone Duo units for walk-in customers on Friday

Apple is preparing to release a limited number of its folding iPhone Duo model for walk-in customers on Friday, following a rush of online orders that sold out within minutes, pushing delivery times for some customers into January. The company announced the introduction of its first folding phone in September, with analysts predicting it will soon dominate a niche market where rivals like Samsung Electronics and Huawei Technologies have long been selling premium products.

However, the iPhone Duo is a more intricate product than traditional iPhones, featuring a delicate hinge that analysts believe may require Apple to refine its manufacturing process for high-volume production.

On Friday morning, Apple plans to welcome customers at its stores to experience the iPhone Duo and the rest of its iPhone lineup. Apple Stores will have a restricted supply of the iPhone Duo available for walk-in customers, and the company is working diligently to ensure this innovative product reaches customers as quickly as possible.

The availability of walk-in units will differ by country, according to Apple. Online order pickup and limited walk-in purchases will be available in the United States, Australia, Canada, Mexico, and a significant portion of the United Kingdom and Europe. In contrast, other regions will only offer iPhone Duo units for customers who have previously purchased them online, including mainland China, France, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates.

In the Macau territory under Chinese control, the iPhone Duo will be accessible for walk-in customers only, with limited stock, according to Apple.