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Buying guide
Buying an iPhone Duo
Apple's first foldable starts at $1,999 and runs to $3,199. This guide covers every decision in order: whether it's the right iPhone for you, which storage and color, whether to add AppleCare+, where to order, and how to get one as soon as possible.
Start here
Is it right for you 6
Fit before features.
- Should you buy an iPhone Duo?Who it suits, by type of buyer.
- Who should wait for iPhone Duo 2What's reported for next year and whether it matters.
- iPhone Duo vs iPhone 18 Pro MaxThe comparison most buyers are making.→
- Duo or iPad mini?If you want a bigger screen, which one.
- Living with a foldable: what changesWeight, thickness, two screens, one-handed use.
- First-generation considerationsWhat's new about the design and how to plan for it.
Configuration 6
The choices on the order page.
- Price by storage tierAll four tiers in the US and major markets.
- 256 GB vs 512 GBThe tier most buyers should choose, and why.
- 512 GB vs 1 TB vs 2 TBWhen the higher tiers earn their price.
- Star White or Night SkyHow the two finishes compare, with and without a case.
- Unlocked or carrierPrice, lock-in and resale implications.
- What's in the boxNo charger; what you need to buy.
Protection and coverage 4
Insuring a $2,000 phone.
- Is AppleCare+ worth it?The math by scenario.
- AppleCare+ vs carrier insurance vs credit card coverageWhat each covers on a foldable.
- AppleCare+ with Theft and LossWhen the upgrade makes sense.
- What AppleCare+ doesn't coverCosmetic wear and other exclusions.
Ordering and availability 8
Where to order and when it arrives.
- Stock and delivery trackerLaunching soon; sign up for alerts.→
- Where to buyApple, carriers, Best Buy and other retailers, and what differs.
- How to order fastestApple Store app setup, carrier checkout, payment ready.
- Walk-in stock: what to expectHow much stock stores have for walk-in customers.
- Restock alertsEmail alerts per configuration.→
- Trade-in valuesApple and carrier quotes for your current phone.
- Financing optionsApple Card Monthly Installments and carrier installments.
- Return policyWhat to check before the return window closes.
International buying 4
Prices and routes outside the US.
- iPhone Duo price by countryEvery launch market converted and compared.
- Launch dates by countryThe October 23 and October 30 waves.
- Buying abroad: eSIM-only implicationsThe Duo has no SIM tray anywhere.
- Importing to a non-launch countryWarranty and band considerations.
Reference 3
Facts for the order page.
- Full specificationsEvery published spec in one table.
- Size and weight comparedAgainst the 18 Pro Max and Fold 8, to scale.
- Model numbers and bandsWhich model is sold where.
Common questions
What does the iPhone Duo cost?
$1,999 for 256 GB, $2,199 for 512 GB, $2,599 for 1 TB and $3,199 for 2 TB in the US. Apple's trade-in program and carrier offers can reduce the upfront amount.
When can I get one?
Within 30 minutes of pre-orders opening on October 16, Apple's online store showed January 25 delivery for every configuration. Apple Store pickup returned on October 24, and carriers and retailers have their own stock, so it's worth checking more than one place.
Which storage should I buy?
It depends on how much you store on the phone. The step from 256 GB to 512 GB is $200; 1 TB and 2 TB cost $600 and $1,200 more than the base model.
Is there a SIM tray?
No. The iPhone Duo is eSIM-only worldwide.
