How to get iPhone 17PM on/near launch day? (staying in Los Angeles for a few days)

albanlt wrote:

I am staying in LA for a few days, and decided that I should try to get the iPhone 17PM while I am there since I've been meaning to upgrade and its a lot cheaper than where I live. I will be there from the 18th to the 22nd.

Realistically, can I get it during that time if I did not preorder the phone?

It is highly unlikely. Delivery dates for orders placed now are well into October if not later by now.

I heard some people say I can reserve it from the availability in stores at 6am, is this true?

No.

If I want to line up to get it in person, how early do I need to arrive to get it?

There's pretty much no point. If you wanted a 17 or 17 Pro (not Max), you might be able to get one from store stock if you're one of the first in line, but I wouldn't hold my breath.

Anyone have any specific tips? I would be so happy if I managed to get it while I was there.

Why didn't / don't you just order one for delivery to your home or for pickup at your local Apple Store?

To get an iPhone 17 Pro Max on or near launch day in Los Angeles, the best approach is to pre-order online through Apple as soon as pre-orders open, since delivery times can fill up quickly. On launch day, visit Apple retail stores early, such as the Apple Store at The Grove, because popular models may sell out fast. You can also check with authorized retailers like Best Buy, Verizon, and T-Mobile for in-store availability. If the Pro Max is unavailable, consider the iPhone 17 or iPhone 17 Pro models, which may be easier to get. Acting quickly and being flexible with the model or color increases your chances of getting the device during your short stay.

AnujAbhiwan wrote:

To get an iPhone 17 Pro Max on or near launch day in Los Angeles, the best approach is to pre-order online through Apple as soon as pre-orders open, since delivery times can fill up quickly.

What is the point of telling them this now? Preorders opened on September 12. As noted in the previous post, shipping/pickup dates for pre-orders are now in October.

You can also check with authorized retailers like Best Buy, Verizon, and T-Mobile for in-store availability.

Carriers will generally only sell to their own customers and the phones may be locked to the carrier for a certain period of time after purchase.

If you're going to copy/paste something from an AI, read it carefully first to make sure that it's accurate and makes sense.