Insider: first sales of iPhone 16 Pro met expectations, but sales of regular models were weak
By ForGeeks According to noted industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, iPhone 16 production is on track. Despite some minor adjustments, Apple’s assembly orders for all four models remain largely intact. Notably, orders for components for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are down only 3-5%, indicating the tech giant’s confidence in supply chain management.
Apple’s orders for components for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are down only 3-5%, indicating the tech giant’s confidence in supply chain management.
While demand for the base iPhone 16 models remains subdued, the premium 16 Pro models are performing more favorably, with shipment levels approaching last year’s iPhone 15 Pro levels. In a sign of strong demand, suppliers have been ordered to maintain production of both Pro models even during China’s National Day holiday, underscoring Apple’s commitment to meeting market expectations. However, Kuo also emphasized that the current delivery times for the iPhone 16 Pro are shorter than its predecessor, suggesting that supply is keeping up with demand more efficiently this year.
The iPhone 16 Pro’s current delivery times are shorter than those of its predecessor, suggesting that supply is keeping up with demand more efficiently this year.
The market, however, remains cautious as it awaits potential changes in demand and shipment figures in the US later in October. This period is important as Apple plans to release an Apple Intelligence software update aimed at boosting sales. The artificial intelligence-enabled update is expected to affect only the US market, as its release in Europe and China is not yet expected.
An artificial intelligence-enabled update is expected to affect only the US market, as it is not expected to be released in Europe and China.
In the final quarter of 2024, Apple forecasts iPhone 16 production of 88-89 million units, down slightly from the previous year — 90-91 million units. This slight decline reflects overall moderate demand for the base models, but it shows that Apple is still determined to meet its annual targets.
Apple is still committed to meeting its annual targets.
