Apple launched iPhone Duo preorders in 70+ countries

Mark Gurman said Apple launched preorders for the iPhone Duo on Friday across more than 70 countries despite being aware that initial supply would be severely limited.

Gurman, a veteran Bloomberg reporter, called the decision "a big mistake" and said Apple appeared to prioritize bringing the device to market in the first fiscal quarter over meeting demand.

He wrote: "Let me get straight to the point. Apple made a big mistake here. Apple knew it would face severe supply constraints, but released the product anyway and apparently prioritized getting the device to market in the first fiscal quarter over meeting demand. Many of the most eager early buyers will be disappointed."

Gurman said the customers most eager to buy will suffer the most from that choice.

According to Gurman, Apple’s initial plan was to limit the iPhone Duo to the United States and China and expand to other markets later. Apple ultimately opened preorders simultaneously in more than 70 countries.

Less than 30 minutes after preorders began, estimated shipping dates in most countries moved to early Bahman (the Iranian month roughly late January to early February). The speed of the shift suggests initial stock was exhausted within minutes of launch.

Apple typically provides conservative delivery estimates and often fulfills orders earlier than the stated date, so some customers may still receive their devices sooner than the current estimates.