Apple limits launch-day iPhone purchases to reserved pickups in three markets
Apple will require confirmed pickup reservations for in-store purchases of the iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro Max in Japan, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates at launch. The restriction begins when the devices go on sale on October 23. Apple cited limited initial supply and anti-scalping concerns, while online preorders quickly showed extended delivery delays.
Apple’s regional retail notices state that launch-day in-store sales for the iPhone Duo and iPhone 18 Pro Max will require a confirmed pickup reservation in Japan, South Korea, and the UAE. The policy begins when the devices go on sale on Friday, October 23.
Apple links the restriction to limited initial inventory and concerns about scalping and crowd control. Online preorders sold out rapidly, with some delivery estimates reaching January 25 for orders placed just 30 minutes after opening. Apple described demand as extraordinary but did not disclose sales or regional allocation figures.
This could affect launch-day shoppers, resellers, and retail staff in the three markets, shifting buying toward online reservations. Consumers may face longer waits and less spontaneous access, while anti-scalping rules may make distribution more orderly but could inconvenience travelers or people without easy online access. It may also signal how Apple handles high-demand launches elsewhere, though no wider policy has been confirmed.