Beat the Rush: Apple's New Tool Lets You Prep for iPhone Duo Before Pre-Orders Even Open

For a phone priced at nearly $2,000, Apple is this time giving buyers an option that doesn't require staying up all night waiting. iPhone Duo pre-orders open on October 16, with the official launch on October 23. But starting October 12, Apple's website and the Apple Store app already have a tool called "Get Ready" that lets users pick their color, storage, and carrier plan ahead of time — leaving just one confirmation tap on Friday.

This folding iPhone, unveiled by Apple last month, comes in Star White and Night Sky, with storage options ranging from 256GB all the way up to 2TB. Through Get Ready, users can select their model, decide whether to trade in an old device, choose a carrier plan, and even add a case and AppleCare+ to the cart — all on the same screen beforehand. Once the pre-order window officially opens on Friday, Apple will submit the order directly using the payment method and shipping address set up in advance.

This design matters because reports suggest iPhone Duo's supply will be limited in its first week on the market. For a new device where timing is everything, placing your order even a little later could push back your shipping date — Get Ready essentially lets you finish "waiting in line" ahead of time.

Pricing and Trade-In: The Gap Between 256GB and 2TB

Buying directly from Apple remains the simplest option, especially for buyers who don't want to be locked into a contract. The 256GB version starts at $1,999, while the top-tier 2TB model costs $3,199. With an eligible iPhone trade-in, Apple offers up to $885 off.

For installment plans, the 256GB version comes with a 24-month payment option at $83.29 per month. Signing up for the newly launched Apple Upgrade Program brings that down to $57.99 per month — but after two years, you'll need to either return the phone to Apple, pay off the remaining balance to keep it, or upgrade to a new model and keep the payments going.

Carriers are also rolling out their own deals. AT&T is offering trade-in credit of up to $1,200, plus an additional $200 bill credit per line for online orders. Best Buy, partnering with AT&T, offers installment plans starting as low as $55.96 per month. For anyone looking to get the best deal on this folding iPhone, it's worth laying out Apple's, the carriers', and retailers' offers side by side for comparison.