Preordering the iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone Duo? Grab these accessories before it arrives
Apple Set to Launch Two New iPhones This Fall as Preorders Approach
Cupertino, Calif. — Apple is gearing up for two major preorder events this fall, bringing both its latest traditional flagship and what the company is calling its first foldable iPhone to consumers within weeks of each other.
The iPhone 18 Pro will open for preorders on Saturday, September 12, at 5 a.m. Pacific Time. Just over a month later, on Friday, October 16, also at 5 a.m. Pacific, preorders for the iPhone Duo — Apple's inaugural entry into the foldable smartphone market — will begin. Both devices will be available through major carriers, including AT&T and Verizon.
Pricing places the iPhone 18 Pro at $1,199, while the foldable iPhone Duo carries a significantly higher price tag of $1,999, reflecting the new technology and form factor at the heart of the device.
A New Category Arrives
The iPhone Duo represents a significant departure from Apple's established smartphone design. As the company's first foldable iPhone, it introduces a screen format that has become increasingly popular across the broader mobile industry. That unique form factor means owners will need accessories tailored specifically to the device, rather than relying on cases and protectors designed for conventional flat smartphones.
Protecting a Significant Investment
With flagship iPhones commanding prices well above $1,000, protecting the devices from drops, scratches, and cracked screens is a priority for many buyers. A wide range of accessories is available to help safeguard both models.
For those who prefer something beyond standard plastic or silicone, leather cases from brands like Nomad offer a refined aesthetic that develops character over time. These cases use cushioned bumpers to absorb impact while resisting everyday scratches and wear through their leather exteriors. One Nomad leather folio case for the iPhone Duo, available in black, tan, or brown, even includes two interior card slots, allowing users to slim down their wallets.
CASETiFY offers a case rated to withstand drops from up to 11.5 feet, featuring a flip-open camera protector and built-in mounting points compatible with accessories such as PopSockets. Meanwhile, budget-conscious buyers can find durable, scratch-resistant options with built-in screen protection and MagSafe compatibility for under $25.
Screen and Lens Protection Matter
Screen protectors are another critical category. Several options are designed specifically for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo, using tempered glass engineered to resist everyday damage. One protector claims to withstand drops from up to 12 feet and comes with an alignment tool to help with precise installation. For the Duo's inner screen, a case-and-protector combination offers added peace of mind against cracking from accidental drops.
Given the iPhone 18 Pro's emphasis on high-quality photography, lens protectors have also drawn attention. Shatter-resistant options with anti-glare coatings are designed to shield camera lenses without interfering with image clarity or low-light performance. A pack of three tempered glass protectors covering both screen and camera is available for the Duo, with a design that supports low-light photography while remaining unobtrusive in daily use.
Keeping Phones Close
Phone lanyards offer both theft deterrence and convenience. A universal adjustable lanyard slips beneath a phone case and through the charging port, keeping the device secure while leaving the port accessible for charging. An Apple-branded crossbody lanyard, compatible with select Apple silicone and TechWoven cases, is also available at a notable discount in olive green.
Shopping Tips
Prices across the accessory market vary widely, with some items seeing markdowns of up to 68 percent off original prices. Prime members can take advantage of fast shipping from major online retailers to have protectors, cases, and lanyards ready before their new phones arrive.
Whether opting for a high-end leather case or a practical tempered glass screen guard, the key for any new iPhone owner is ensuring protection is in place before the device lands in hand. With two new devices and staggered preorder dates, there's time to research and prepare — but with demand expected to be high, early planning is a smart move.