Apple's Foldable iPhone Duo Pre-Orders Start With Get Ready Tool

Apple's first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, was announced last month and will hit stores on October 23. Pre-orders begin this week on October 16, but customers can already get a head start using a new tool called Get Ready on Apple's website or app.

Get Ready allows shoppers to select their model, color, storage, carrier, trade-in, and accessories in advance. They can also set up payment and shipping details before the pre-order window opens on Friday. When pre-orders go live, Apple will automatically place the order, aiming to secure launch-day delivery. According to Engadget, using Get Ready could improve the chances of receiving the device on October 23, especially if supply is limited.

The iPhone Duo comes in two colors, Star White and Night Sky, with storage options from 256GB to 2TB. The 256GB model starts at $1,999, while the 2TB version is priced at $3,199. Apple is offering up to $885 in credit for eligible trade-ins. Customers can also split payments over 24 months, which would be $83.29 per month for the 256GB model. Alternatively, the new Apple Upgrade program reduces the monthly cost to $57.99, but after two years, customers must return the phone, pay the remaining balance, or upgrade to a new device.

Carriers are also promoting their own deals. AT&T is offering up to $1,200 in trade-in credit and an extra $200 per line for online orders. Best Buy will have launch promotions, with installment plans starting at $55.96 per month through AT&T. Engadget suggests comparing these offers to find the best fit.

The iPhone Duo represents Apple's entry into the foldable market, and its high price point positions it as a premium device. While the Get Ready tool and carrier deals aim to ease the purchasing process, the actual demand and user experience remain to be seen. For those considering an upgrade, the trade-in values and monthly payment options could make the device more accessible, but the total cost of ownership—especially with the Upgrade program's return requirement—should be carefully evaluated.

As with any new product category, potential buyers should weigh the benefits of foldable technology against the substantial investment. The iPhone Duo's success will depend on whether the foldable form factor offers meaningful improvements in daily use, and whether early adopters find the price justified.