Brief
Apple disables online store ahead of iPhone Duo preorder launch
The outage coincides with the start of pre‑orders for Apple’s first foldable iPhone, scheduled for launch on Oct. 23.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Apple temporarily disabled its online Apple Store on the morning of Oct. 16, just before the iPhone Duo preorder window opens at 5 a.m. Eastern Time, 9to5Mac reported.
What happened
The company took the store offline early Thursday, citing “tradition” of preparing for the high‑demand launch of its first foldable phone. Pre‑orders are set to begin at 5 a.m. PT (8 a.m. ET) on Friday, with the device slated to ship on Oct. 23.
What the reports add
9to5Mac notes that supply is expected to be constrained and demand high, with analysts predicting the launch‑day stock could sell out quickly. The outlet also details the iPhone Duo’s specifications: a 7.6‑inch inner display, 5.4‑inch outer display, custom hinge, nano‑textured matte finish, A20 Pro chip, Touch ID, and two colour options, Night Sky and Star White. Pricing starts at $1,999 for the 256 GB model, with higher‑capacity versions available.
What was said
9to5Mac quotes the site’s own description, stating, “If you are waiting to buy the new Apple foldable, be sure to log on at 5 AM Eastern Time.”
How it came about
Earlier Felo coverage explained the preorder staging page (Oct. 13) and demo‑unit rollout (Oct. 11), setting the context for today’s store shutdown.
Key facts
- Apple took its online store offline on Oct. 16 before iPhone Duo pre‑orders began at 5 a.m. ET. (9to5mac.com)
- iPhone Duo pre‑orders open at 5 a.m. PT (8 a.m. ET) on Oct. 16, with launch scheduled for Oct. 23. (9to5mac.com)
- The iPhone Duo starts at $1,999 for the 256 GB model and features a 7.6‑inch inner display, 5.4‑inch outer display, A20 Pro chip, and Touch ID. (9to5mac.com)
Sources
- [1] 9to5mac.com — originally reported as “Apple Store is down ahead of iPhone Duo preorder rush”
