A throwback to early iPhone launches: iPhone Duo brings back Apple Store queues

Apple’s first foldable iPhone has brought back a familiar sight from the company’s early smartphone launches: long queues outside its stores. Lines of dozens or even hundreds of customers formed outside Apple Stores in the United States and other countries.

The iPhone Duo debuted on Friday, October 23. Apple said customers flocked to its stores to try the new foldable device, with staff offering hands-on demonstrations and personalized shopping assistance. Some customers began queuing a day or even two before launch. At Apple Fifth Avenue in New York City, a line was visible around 4:15 a.m., while other locations reported queues stretching around entire buildings.

Apple executives also marked the launch in person. CEO John Ternus and retail chief Deirdre O’Brien welcomed customers at Apple Domain Northside in Austin, Texas. Meanwhile, marketing chief Greg Joswiak and vice president of retail stores Vanessa Trigub greeted customers at Apple Fifth Avenue in New York City.

Apple had warned that the iPhone Duo would be available in limited quantities to walk-in customers in the US and select other countries. The company said supplies could sell out quickly following what it described as “extraordinary” pre-order demand. Some locations had reportedly exhausted their launch-day walk-in stock by Friday morning.

Customers who missed out on launch-day stock may have another chance soon. Apple’s online store in many countries advised shoppers to check back on Saturday, October 24, for information about in-store pickup. However, Apple has not specified exactly when pickup reservations would resume, and availability may remain limited.