Apple’s latest iPhone 17 series has reportedly garnered greater demand than its predecessor, the iPhone 16. Pre-orders for the new devices commenced on September 12, 2023, and certain models, particularly the orange iPhone 17 Pro Max, are already experiencing shipping delays of several weeks. According to analyst Ming Chi Kuo, this uptick in demand signals a promising start for the new series.
Kuo’s observations indicate that the iPhone 17 Pro Max is emerging as a standout performer within the lineup. He notes that the first weekend of pre-orders for the iPhone 17 series has surpassed those of the iPhone 16 models from the previous year. The popularity of the new devices is evident not only in sales figures but also in the production and delivery timelines, which are reportedly more favorable than last year’s offerings.
Production Levels and Market Response
Apple’s production plans for the iPhone 17 series, including the standard model, Pro, and Pro Max versions, aim to increase output by approximately 25% compared to the iPhone 16 range. The delivery lead times for the new models are also extended by a week, further suggesting elevated consumer interest. Notably, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to see production ramped up by about 60% year-on-year, reflecting its status as a top seller.
The striking new orange variant of the iPhone 17 Pro Max quickly went on backorder, indicating strong consumer enthusiasm. Kuo believes this momentum could positively influence Apple’s earnings report for the upcoming quarter.
Challenges with iPhone Air Demand
Contrasting with the enthusiasm for the iPhone 17 series, Kuo highlights a more tempered response for the ultra-thin iPhone Air model. Currently, customers can pre-order this variant and expect delivery on its launch date of September 19, 2023. As of now, the Sky Blue and Space Black color options are available, with shipping set for the same day. However, the Light Gold and Cloud White colorways have begun to see increased demand, with the former facing a shipping delay of 7-10 days and the latter a backorder of 2-3 weeks.
Kuo has expressed concerns that demand for the iPhone Air is lower than what the iPhone 16 Plus experienced last year. Despite this, Apple plans to triple the production levels for the Air compared to the iPhone 16 Plus. Kuo speculates that while the specifications of the iPhone Air may not seem appealing on paper, a positive in-store experience could sway consumer preferences.
As the launch date approaches, consumer interest in the iPhone 17 series continues to build, indicating that Apple may have struck the right chord with its latest offerings. The combination of increased production, engaging design, and strategic marketing could set the stage for a successful release, even as the iPhone Air seeks to find its footing in a competitive market.
