Mark GurmanJohn TernusBloomberg L.P.Apple Inc.

Apple opens iPhone Duo preorder setup for early option selection; in-store buyers get a "fun little touch" that says "Hello, Mark" on first boot

Apple has launched a preorder setup for the iPhone Duo, allowing customers to select their preferred color, storage, and carrier ahead of the official release on October 16. In-store buyers will enjoy a personalized greeting on first boot, saying, 'Hello, [Name],' adding a unique touch to their purchase.

CNET+1 source13 October 2026 · 03:47 UTC
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Apple has opened a preorder setup for the iPhone Duo, allowing customers to select their preferred color, storage, and carrier ahead of the official release on October 16. Preorders will begin at 5 a.m. PT on Friday, with the base model priced at $1,999 for 512GB, reaching $3,199 for the 2TB version.

In-store buyers will enjoy a personalized greeting on first boot, saying, 'Hello, [Name],' which is described as a 'fun little touch.' This feature is available only in the U.S. and for iPhone Duo models purchased directly from Apple Stores, not carriers. The customization will only occur the first time the device is turned on, and it supports English and Spanish.45

The preorder page allows customers to save their details, ensuring a smooth purchase process when preorders open. This preparation is crucial, especially given the expected high demand among early adopters. Observers note that the iPhone Duo's unique foldable design, featuring a 7.6-inch display and support for split-screen multitasking, is likely to attract significant interest.

As Apple continues to innovate under CEO John Ternus, the iPhone Duo represents a significant step in the smartphone market, with its pricing and features setting it apart from competitors. Customers are encouraged to finalize their choices in advance to avoid missing out on their preferred configurations.

Key Insight
“Preorders open at 5 a.m. PT on Friday, Oct. 16, with setup available from Monday, Oct. 12, and pricing starts at $1,999 for the 512GB model. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says the in-store boot customization is U.S.-only, Duo-only, and works in English and Spanish.”
CuriousCats studied:
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“Apple has opened a staging page for preorders on , where you can get ready to place a preorder for the viral phone.”
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“A new report says customers in-store will get a special customization extra when they buy it.”
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