Apple says it's hard to predict when iPhone Duo supply will improve

Apple Chief Operating Officer Sabih Khan acknowledged on Monday, during the company's fiscal fourth-quarter earnings call, that supply of the new foldable iPhone Duo remains constrained. He said it is difficult to say when supply and demand will come into balance, meaning some buyers may wait until next year for the device.

"iPhone Duo is constrained as of today. The ramp is going well, and we're working hard to get this revolutionary new product into the hands of our customers as quickly as possible. But at this time, it's really hard to predict when supply and demand will be in balance," Khan said.

Shipping delays

Customers who did not queue at an Apple Store or place a preorder right away are now seeing delivery estimates that extend into next year. Mobile carrier Verizon has apologized to its customers for the delays by offering gift cards.

In October, the Financial Times quoted Apple describing demand for the Duo as "nothing short of extraordinary." The device sold out on Apple's website within hours of going on sale, pushing delivery dates into next year. The prolonged delays stand out given Apple's reputation for a highly efficient supply chain.

Memory chip costs

Much of the call centered on questions about rising memory chip prices, driven by surging demand from the AI industry. The pressure affects hardware makers across the sector and could push device prices higher still. Khan said Apple has already raised prices on a number of products, and that those decisions were made "reluctantly."

Apple also said it is "deepening" its partnership with Perryman, a titanium producer that supplies materials for the new foldable device. Apple CEO John Ternus said in his opening remarks that the company has been thrilled with the early response from reviewers and customers.