iPhone Duo Pre-Pre-Order: Should You Do It?

Quick summary: Apple has a pre-pre-order page for the iPhone Duo where you set up your configuration ahead of time. Unlike Samsung’s reservations, it doesn’t give you a pre-order credit or get you in line. It just speeds up checkout. You have nothing to lose, so I recommend doing it.

Key takeaways

• Apple’s pre-pre-order lets you pick your model, color and storage ahead of time.
• Samsung’s reservations are different: you’re notified on launch day and usually get a pre-order credit. Apple doesn’t do that.
• It’s on Apple’s website only, not Best Buy or the carriers.
• Nothing to lose: do it.
• Skip financing if you’re on the fence about ordering.
• I’m going with classic white, unlocked.
• I expect 256GB to be the most popular configuration, then 512GB, 1TB and 2TB.

What the pre-pre-order actually does

Apple’s page lets you choose your storage amount and other options now, so ordering is faster when pre-orders open. If you’re used to Samsung, don’t expect the same perks. Samsung’s reservation gets you in line, emails you on release day, and usually gives you a pre-order credit plus trade-in offers. Apple’s version gives you none of that. It just saves time. It’s on Apple’s website only, as far as I know.

Should you do it?

Yes. There’s nothing to lose, and every second counts on pre-order day. One tip: if you’re on the edge about ordering, don’t set it up with financing yet.

My configuration

I’m leaning toward the classic white, unlocked. I think 256GB will be the most popular because it’s the cheapest, followed by 512GB, then 1TB and 2TB. 2TB in a phone is insane. I’ve used Samsung’s tri-fold and I use a Galaxy Z Fold 8 daily, so the form factor isn’t new to me. For most iPhone users, though, this will be a whole new experience.

Grips for your Duo

A folding phone is a lot of phone to hold. My go-to is an OhSnap grip. PopSockets also has options at Best Buy:

• PopSockets Low-Pro Grip
• PopSockets Kick-Out
• PopSockets Suck-Up