Apple launches iPhone Duo as reported target rises 44%

Apple began selling its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, on October 23 after preorders sold out quickly and delivery estimates stretched into January. The launch comes as a report citing supply-chain sources says the company has asked manufacturers to increase the device’s shipment target, though Apple has not confirmed that figure. The reported 12-month target would rise to 14 million units from 9.7 million, an increase of about 44%. The account attributes the request to Apple’s assembly partner Foxconn and component suppliers. The figures trace to one supply-chain report repeated in subsequent coverage, rather than independent confirmations, and should not be treated as confirmed Apple production guidance. Apple characterized preorder demand as extraordinary. Preorders opened October 16, and initial inventory was quickly exhausted, with delivery estimates in some markets moving well beyond the October 23 store launch. Apple said stores would have limited walk-in stock. The rapid sellouts and delays indicate strong early interest, but do not establish how much results from consumer demand versus production constraints or how many devices have been sold. The iPhone...