Pre-Ordering
Methods of Payment
Apple allow all payment types apart from PayPal. In 2022 there were problems with ordering in the Apple Store App where the app wouldn't let you enter a valid phone number, most ended up using the website.
All standard Debit and Credit Cards can be used.
Apple's financing is now through their new Flexible Finance Account (provided by Creation), replacing the old Barclays iPhone Upgrade Programme which is coming to an end. The Flexible Finance Account is a line of credit that lets you spread the cost of your next Apple device with 20-month or 30-month plan options available. Note that unlike the old iPhone Upgrade Programme, the Flexible Finance Account is not 0% interest.
If you have an Employee Reward Program you won't be able to use the EPP against the devices, however, they normally have the option to purchase Apple Gift Cards with 4–6% off. Purchase the gift cards in the denominations needed and you can add them to your Apple Balance at https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT201209, this is a great way to purchase quickly and successfully in the Apple Store App. EPP can be used for accessories like cases and wallets that Apple may update.
Pre-Pre Order
Apple will let you select your device and prepare your payment without completing the checkout, this is normally a day after the announcement. If you are using Apple's Flexible Finance this will also set you up for pre-approval.
If you are using credit card it will not take your funds at this point or do any checks.
Pre-Order
When pre-order comes round on the Friday you should be able to just go in to the App, click on the For You tab and complete the transaction – be quick to get in on launch day. It is wise to have several devices on the website/store app. It is a lottery each year to know which method is the best way to purchase.
Retailers
| Retailer | Preorder From | Info |
|---|---|---|
| Very | Same as Apple | Very sometimes launch preorders a little bit earlier, they don't tend to have much stock and they charge delivery fees. |
| Amazon | Same as Apple | Avoid, Avoid, Avoid – Experience shows Amazon are very poor when it comes to launch day devices. They promote the device and it just doesn't get sent. Stay away until a few weeks after launch. |
| Argos | Day of Release | Stock at Argos is normally quite tight, it really is potluck. |
| John Lewis | Day of Release | Again like Argos stock is limited. |
| Currys and Carphone Warehouse |
Same as Apple | Didn't do too bad in 2022 and delivered launch stock on time, but do have a history of messing up. Also their returns policies are questionable so tend to avoid. |
| Costco | Day of Release | Stock is not guaranteed and almost certainly will not get an release day. Orders should open for delivery within 5–10 working days. |
| AO and Mobiles.co.uk |
Day of Release | Stock is not guaranteed and almost certainly will not get on release day. Orders are normally despatched for next day, so order on Friday get on Saturday if quick enough. |
| EE / O2 / Vodafone / Three |
Same as Apple, sometimes a little earlier | The main 4 all appeared to have pre-order availability. Watch out for pricing and tariffs. Updates during despatch and delivery appear to be quite sporadic across all the networks. |