Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, could be difficult to purchase during its initial rollout, with a new analyst forecast suggesting that production will be more limited than previously expected.

According to analyst Jeff Pu, Apple is now projected to produce approximately 6 million iPhone Duo units in 2026, down from an earlier estimate of 7 million. The revised forecast points to manufacturing challenges involving the device’s complex folding hinge rather than weaker consumer demand.

The lower estimate raises questions about how quickly Apple will be able to meet orders when its foldable iPhone becomes available next month.

Complex Hinge Could Limit Initial Supply

The iPhone Duo introduces a new manufacturing challenge for Apple, with its folding mechanism requiring more complex production than a conventional smartphone.

Pu attributes the revised forecast to constraints in hinge manufacturing, which could slow production and restrict the number of devices available during the initial sales period.

The reduction from 7 million to 6 million units represents approximately one million fewer devices than previously projected. However, these figures remain analyst estimates rather than confirmed production targets announced by Apple.

For perspective, Pu expects approximately 72 million combined shipments of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max by the end of 2026, highlighting the comparatively limited scale of the foldable model’s anticipated rollout.

The supply constraints could translate into longer delivery estimates if initial orders exceed the number of devices available. Actual waiting times, however, will depend on production output and consumer demand once preorders begin.

iPhone Duo Preorders Begin October 16

Apple has confirmed that iPhone Duo preorders will open on October 16, with availability beginning on October 23 in the first group of markets.

The company has set a starting price of $1,999 in the United States, positioning the device as its most expensive entry-level iPhone to date.

Unlike the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, which follow Apple’s September release schedule, the Duo is arriving in October.

Apple has confirmed initial availability across more than 70 countries and regions, with another 28 markets scheduled to receive the device from October 30. Pakistan has not been included in the announced initial launch markets.

For prospective buyers, the key issue will be whether Apple can increase hinge production sufficiently to meet demand during the final months of the year.

If Pu’s revised forecast proves accurate, the iPhone Duo could face constrained availability well beyond its October debut, although Apple has not officially confirmed a production shortfall or announced extended delivery delays.