Apple Opens Get Ready Tool Ahead of iPhone Duo Pre-Orders

Customers can use Get Ready to select a model, color and storage capacity before the pre-order window opens. Engadget reported the iPhone Duo will come in Star White or Night Sky and offer storage from 256GB to 2TB. Buyers can also choose a carrier, decide whether to trade in an old phone, add accessories such as a case and sign up for AppleCare+ from the purchase screen. After those choices are saved, Get Ready lets users set a payment method and shipping address now. When the pre-order window opens on Friday, Apple will place the order, according to Engadget.

Engadget reported that waiting until Friday to place an order could delay shipping because demand for new Apple products is usually strong. The report also cited rumors that iPhone Duo units may be limited at launch. Using Get Ready may improve a customer's chance of receiving the device on Oct. 23, Engadget said.

Apple is selling the iPhone Duo directly, which Engadget described as the easiest option for buyers who do not want a plan tied to a specific carrier. Apple is offering up to $885 in credit for an eligible iPhone trade-in. The full price starts at $1,999 for the 256GB model and reaches $3,199 for the 2TB model. Buyers can split payments over as long as 24 months, making the 256GB model $83.29 per month. Under Apple's new Upgrade program, Engadget said, the monthly cost falls to $57.99, but after two years customers must return the phone, pay the remaining balance to keep it, or upgrade to a new device and continue paying.

Carriers and retailers have also announced iPhone Duo offers. AT&T is offering up to $1,200 for eligible trade-ins and an extra $200 per line for online orders, according to Engadget. Best Buy will have launch deals, with prices starting at $55.96 per month on an installment plan with AT&T. Engadget advised comparing the offers side by side to determine which one fits best.