Apple recently introduced its new iPhone 17 lineup and finally made the base model an interesting proposition by adding a 120Hz refresh rate and a minimum of 256GB of storage. This immediately affected demand: the number of pre-orders for the base iPhone 17 has already exceeded the results of the iPhone 16, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
Meanwhile, Kuo reports that Apple plans to produce 25% more of all iPhone 17 smartphones, including the Pro and Pro Max, in the third quarter of 2025 than the iPhone 16 in the same period last year. At the same time, the expected delivery times have increased by only one week, indicating strong combined demand for these three models.
Apple also introduced the ultra-thin iPhone Air this year. Kuo says the company has increased production plans for the model by 200% compared to last year's iPhone 16 Plus. The analyst adds that there were no similar examples in previous models, so the true level of demand will only become clear after a longer sales period.
The iPhone 17 Pro Max remains the leader in demand among new smartphones. Its production in the third quarter will be 60% higher than last year's iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Finally, Kuo points to the financial impact. He says strong iPhone 17 pre-orders should support Apple's financial results in Q3 2025. However, the rise in supplier stocks may be limited, as investors are more likely to expect a sharp jump in the product cycle next year and possible benefits for the entire supply chain.
Recall that this year Apple and other companies have seen a significant increase in sales of premium smartphones. The Cupertino company holds the lead in the market and is responsible for 62% of all premium devices.