Fans have begun lining up outside Apple Stores around the world to get their hands on iPhone X. The device makes its official debut tomorrow, and Apple has promised that units will be available for walk-in customers. However, they’re expected to disappear quickly (just like preorders did).
Some lines have already turned chaotic, while latecomers are offering money for precious spots near the front.
In some cities, iPhone X lines started forming days ago, as dedicated Apple fans set up camp to ensure they wouldn’t be faced with disappointment come launch day. Those lines are now getting longer as Friday approaches.
In Singapore, for instance, things got a little crazy outside the Orchard Road Apple Store, as seen in a tweet from the scene. Fans attempt to push their way to the front as Apple employees shout, “You need breathing space! This will take a while; there is no point in pushing.”
“You need breathing space!”: Chaos outside Apple store at Orchard Road, a day before the #iPhoneX launches in S’pore https://t.co/IaKtQzuvBj pic.twitter.com/BwcAeJqPom
— Channel NewsAsia (@ChannelNewsAsia) November 2, 2017
It’s likely the vast majority of those fans will be leaving the store empty-handed tomorrow. Recent reports warn that iPhone X supplies will be severely constrained at launch, and the preorder experience did little to reassure fans there would be enough to go around.
Line for iPhone X at @Apple store Sydney goes down the block on the right. Longest line since iPhone 6 that I’ve seen. pic.twitter.com/BY7JNzWfNW
— Karan J (@karanj) November 2, 2017
Outside a Tokyo Apple Store, which won’t open for iPhone X sales for another six hours, one fan was offered 10,000 yen (approximately $90) for their place in line. Police have been called in to try and deal with the “total chaos.”
Someone offered me 10.000 yen for my place in line. Any better offers? XD #iPhoneX
— hannari_eli (はんなり_エリ) (@hannari_eri) November 2, 2017
Why didn’t @Apple think of a solution for the line in front of their stores. It’s total chaos in Japan.
— hannari_eli (はんなり_エリ) (@hannari_eri) November 2, 2017
The line outside the Ginza Apple Store is said to be around two blocks long now. Trish Castro has been waiting outside for two days.
https://twitter.com/teachertwish/status/925991293230096384
Some people are being mocked on social media for getting in line so early. But let’s face it — these Apple fans wouldn’t be getting their hands on iPhone X tomorrow if they didn’t.
MASSIVE lines at the Shinsaibashi Apple Store in Osaka! It’s 10:30pm and the line goes TWO BLOCKS. Easily 200-300 people.#iPhoneX pic.twitter.com/KqQkXvmjeo
— Kayleeだよぉ〜♡ (@kayleedayo) November 2, 2017
Are you camped outside an Apple Store for iPhone X? Tweet us your pictures @cultofmac.
