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Explained in plain English

What is a pre-order, really?

A pre-order allows customers to reserve a product before its official launch or widespread availability. While it secures a purchase, it doesn't guarantee immediate delivery, especially for high-demand items like the iPhone Duo. Buyers often join a queue, receiving their product as stock becomes available.

Stories that explain this

iPhone Duo sold out in minutes, with Apple deliveries now not until late January

Related explainers

Why are iPhones always scarce? Why do networks get phones sooner? Why turn people away from stores? What are pre-orders? How do pre-orders work? What are common public order offences? Are community orders lenient? What is a dispersal order?

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