Queue-jumper sparks chaos at Sydney Apple Store during iPhone 18 Pro launch

Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro launch in Sydney descended into a brief dispute on Friday morning after a customer allegedly jumped the queue and attempted to claim the first handset sold at the flagship Apple Store on George Street.

Customers had gathered outside the store hours before its 8 a.m. opening as iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max went on sale around the world. Australia is traditionally among the first major markets to begin in-store sales because of its time zone.

Lachlan Collyer, 20, had secured the front position after arriving hours before opening and was ultimately recognized as the store’s first iPhone 18 Pro customer, despite another person moving ahead of the queue shortly before sales began, according to news.com.au.

The incident caused frustration among those who had waited for hours, but Collyer went on to purchase a Glacier iPhone 18 Pro Max and retained his position as the recognized first buyer.

The Sydney opening marks the beginning of a rolling worldwide launch for Apple’s latest devices. iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are available from Friday, September 18 in more than 65 countries and regions, including Australia, the United Kingdom and United States.

Apple’s new Pro models introduce the A20 Pro chip, a 48MP Fusion Main camera with variable aperture, improved battery life and a smaller Dynamic Island. The devices are available in black, silver, Glacier and the new Burgundy finish.

The launch follows the start of deliveries and store shipments earlier this week. The first iPhone 18 Pro pre-orders began showing as shipped ahead of launch day, while images from T-Mobile distribution centers showed large numbers of devices being prepared for customers.

Customers visiting Apple’s Sydney store were also able to preview iPhone Duo ahead of its own launch next month. Apple’s first foldable iPhone will be available for pre-order on October 16 before arriving in stores on October 23.