Strong Demand for Apple iPhone 17 Series Surpasses iPhone 16 Launch

JP Morgan analysts report that Apple’s newly launched iPhone 17 lineup is showing stronger demand compared to the iPhone 16 series during its first week of pre-orders. The investment bank highlighted that delivery lead times in key markets including the U.S., China, Germany, and the UK are tracking ahead of last year’s models, with particular interest in the standard iPhone 17 and the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air.

The iPhone 17 Air, positioned as a sleeker alternative to the discontinued 16 Plus, has generated notable traction, though it faces regulatory delays in China due to e-SIM restrictions. Despite this, early data suggests strong consumer appetite. While pre-orders currently favor the base and Air models over the Pro versions, JP Morgan noted this does not yet point to weaker demand for the premium Pro and Pro Max devices, which historically attract buyers over time.

Delivery wait times serve as a demand indicator, with longer delays reflecting stronger sales momentum. In the U.S., which accounts for about a third of global iPhone shipments, the iPhone 17 and Air showed lead times of four and seven days, respectively. Meanwhile, the Pro and Pro Max had four and 21-day wait times. In contrast, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus saw no delays at launch, while the 16 Pro and Pro Max registered six and 20-day lead times.

Apple’s share price initially dipped following the iPhone 17 reveal, as investors sought more clarity on the company’s artificial intelligence strategy. However, signs of solid consumer interest could help lift its sales outlook, particularly in China where Apple has been battling slowing demand. With the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple aims to regain momentum against rivals like Samsung while appealing to both mainstream and premium buyers.