Foldable Debut Draws Crowds as Store Supplies Dry Up

Lines stretched from the doors of Apple Stores around the world on October 23 as the company's first foldable iPhone made its debut, drawing crowds eager for a hands-on look at the new device. The global event marked the release of the iPhone Duo, a product Apple has positioned as a major step forward in its mobile lineup. Across various locations, customers filled the stores to experience the new technology with team members offering demonstrations and shopping support.

Apple released photographs this morning showing the activity at its locations globally. These images were released alongside a statement confirming the device's arrival at retail locations worldwide. Readers have also shared pictures from their own local stores, reflecting the widespread interest in the new hardware.

The gathering was notable for the presence of senior company leadership. Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of worldwide marketing, was present at the flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York to observe the launch alongside Vanessa Trigub, an executive in retail. In another location, Apple CEO John Ternus joined retail chief Deirdre O’Brien at the Domain NORTHSIDE site in Austin, Texas. This visit to Austin follows reports that Ternus toured Apple's offices there earlier this week. The timing coincides with the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix taking place in the city this weekend, where Apple holds exclusive streaming rights in the United States.

Despite the enthusiasm, securing the device in person proved difficult for many. Apple warned that inventory at physical locations would be limited, and the long lines formed overnight by people hoping to buy an iPhone Duo with walk-in availability did not result in sales for everyone. Retail staff were seen directing disappointed customers toward digital channels, specifically the Apple Store app, to check for in-store inventory details the following day at 10 a.m. ET.

The situation underscores the gap between the demand for the new foldable technology and the immediate supply available at retail locations. The company has directed those who did not secure a unit in person to look online for future availability. Apple has asked customers to report their success or failure in obtaining the device in the comments section of their post.