Apple is now allowing customers to check the availability of its iPhone 5s and arrange for in-store pickup through its online store. Currently, all 5s models on all carriers are showing an October shipping date. Although it differs by store, a search of numerous zip codes shows very few models are available for in-store pickup at this time, however, some iPhone 5s units—particularly in Space Gray—are available for certain carriers. By comparison, the iPhone 5c is still shipping within 24 hours, and many models appear to be available for in-store pickup.
Update: Apple is no longer offering in-store pickup for the iPhone 5s as of Sept. 24, a day after making the option available. But it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the option return again in the near future.