Want the iPhone 17 Pro on Release Day?

AI-generated, human-reviewed.

If you want the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, or iPhone Air in your hands on launch day, preparation is everything. On Hands-On Apple, Mikah Sargent outlined practical steps to guarantee a smooth pre-order experience and avoid missing out on the most popular models and colors.

Why Preparing Your iPhone Pre-Order Matters

New iPhone launches often see high demand — especially for unique colorways and certain storage sizes. If you don’t set up your pre-order ahead of time, you risk delayed shipping or missing out entirely on your chosen model. Apple makes it possible to organize all pre-order details in advance so you can order within minutes of pre-orders going live.

Quick Summary: Prepping for iPhone 17 Pre-Orders

• Pre-orders begin on Friday, September 12
• The Apple Store app on iOS or iPadOS is recommended for the smoothest workflow
• You can pre-select your model, color, storage, carrier, and AppleCare options before launch day
• Adding trading-in, payment, and delivery info in advance saves you critical time

Step-by-Step: How to Set Up an iPhone 17 Pre-Order

1. Install the Apple Store App

Download and open the Apple Store app from the App Store on your iPhone or iPad. This app is optimized for efficient and secure orders, often more reliable than using Apple’s website.

2. Pick Your Preferred Model

Browse to the iPhone section and select the new iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, or iPhone Air. Choose your exact configuration:

• Finish (color)
• Storage size (like 512GB, 1TB)
• Carrier or unlocked
• Trade-in status (e.g., iPhone 16 for up to $700 credit)

3. Decide on AppleCare

Choose between:

• AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss: Covers theft, loss, and damage
• AppleCare One: Subscription covering multiple Apple devices
• No coverage

4. Set Up Payment and Trade-In Info

Add or select your payment method — either card or Apple Pay. Confirm trade-in details for credit toward your new device (credit will be applied when Apple receives and approves your trade-in). The app will validate your phone and payment details.

5. Schedule and Save Your Pre-Order

Once you finalize your selections, save your pre-order information. The app will prompt you to add a calendar event reminding you when pre-orders go live — usually with built-in alerts to ensure you’re ready right when the store opens.

6. Be Ready the Morning Pre-Orders Open

When pre-orders start, open the Apple Store app and complete your purchase with a few quick taps. For popular colors or configurations, early action vastly increases your chances of day-one delivery.

Pro Tips for Stress-Free Pre-Ordering

• Load the Apple Store app on a second device (like an iPad) in case of slowdowns
• Double-check your payment and shipping details the day before
• Order accessories (like cases) in advance
• If you have trouble, switching between the app and website may help

The Bottom Line

If you want to avoid shipping delays or missing your preferred iPhone 17, using the Apple Store app to set up your pre-order in advance is essential. Mikah Sargent’s walkthrough on Hands-On Apple shows that planning ahead takes only minutes and offers the best shot at early delivery, even for in-demand models or finishes.

Listen and subscribe to catch every episode: https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-apple/episodes/199