Apple is preparing its flagship Fifth Avenue store in New York for Friday's launch of the iPhone Duo, the company's first foldable smartphone, with large covered installations appearing outside the store and some customers already camping out at other locations.

Photos shared on social media Wednesday showed several large rectangular structures set up around the store's famous glass cube entrance. The installations remained hidden under black cloth and white protective wrapping, but their shape suggested they could be oversized models of the new device, according to Apple-focused news site 9to5Mac.

The iPhone Duo goes on sale Friday, Oct. 23, in more than 70 countries and regions, with 28 additional markets following on Oct. 30.

There did not appear to be a line outside the Fifth Avenue store as of Wednesday, but customers have reportedly begun lining up at other Apple stores. One Apple-focused content creator posted a video on social media showing people who he said had been waiting in line for the iPhone Duo since Monday.

Long lines were once a hallmark of iPhone launches, but they have become less common in recent years as more buyers preorder devices online. The early lines for the iPhone Duo reflect strong interest in Apple's first entry into the foldable phone market, as well as tight supply.

Apple's launch-day tradition

Apple has a history of decorating its flagship stores for major........

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