Apple Caps iPhone Duo Orders at Two Per Person as Demand Outpaces Supply

Update, October 27: Delivery estimates for new online orders have not settled. Within days of preorders opening, the estimates moved from mid November to late January 2027, and some individual orders have since moved earlier, to November 16 to 23 or November 20 to 30. Pickup returned in the United States and Canada on October 24 for about five minutes, and most stores had no slots. Check the estimate on your own order.

Update, October 24: Launch day has now started, with queues and walk in sellouts reported at some stores. The two per person limit was introduced ahead of the sale, and resale listings are well above the list price.

Update, October 23: Apple retail staff have been told to warn customers that walk in Duo sales will be limited. Our launch day article covers the current stock picture in more detail.

Apple has introduced a limit of two iPhone Duo purchases per person, according to reports, as demand for its first foldable continues to outpace the phones it can supply. The cap is aimed at buyers who try to order several units to resell them, a practice that has grown alongside the long delivery waits.

The limit comes just days after preorders for the iPhone Duo sold out and delivery estimates slipped into early 2027. Together, the two developments show how tight supply is for a device that starts at $1,999.

Why a purchase cap matters

When a phone is scarce, resellers tend to buy as many units as they can and sell them at a premium. A two unit limit makes that harder without stopping an ordinary buyer from getting one, which is what Apple is aiming for. The company has not published details on how the limit is enforced, so it is worth checking the terms on the store when you order.

For genuine buyers, the practical effect is that the best chance of getting a Duo at launch is through the store rather than a reseller. Stock is limited, so being patient may still be the only realistic option for many people.

What to expect next

Apple has not said when supply will catch up. The phone's launch date and first store availability are the next things to watch, along with whether the purchase limit is lifted once stock recovers. For now, anyone waiting for the Duo should expect a longer wait than usual and check the store for the latest delivery estimate before deciding.