Apple aims for record sales during the holiday season

Apple has once again released its latest quarterly results – and they couldn't be clearer about where things are headed. The previous quarter already brought a new revenue record. Even more exciting, however, is the outlook: The company expects the strongest results in its history for the current Christmas quarter.

With expected revenue growth of 10 to 12 percent year-over-year, Apple anticipates that the December quarter of 2025 will set new benchmarks. The new iPhone 17 series will play a central role in this. Analysts had expected significantly lower figures, but Apple is raising its expectations – and doing so confidently.

New record in the September quarter

The past September quarter already demonstrates Apple's strong financial position. Although the launch of the iPhone 17 models only occupied a little over a week within this period, new record highs were achieved. Apple reported strong quarterly results, thus providing the basis for an optimistic outlook for the next quarter.

Strong Christmas quarter expected

For the current quarter, which ends with the crucial holiday season, Apple forecasts revenue growth of between 10 and 12 percent compared to the previous year. If this estimate proves accurate, revenue would reach approximately $136.73 billion. By comparison, the company's best quarter to date—also a holiday quarter—generated $124.30 billion in revenue.

iPhone 17 drives up the numbers

The most important driver for the expected growth is the new iPhone 17. Although the current quarterly figures only reflect a very short sales period for the new models, Apple is confident in the devices' potential. Apple CEO Tim Cook spoke of an "incredible" response to the new iPhones in an interview with CNBC . The devices appear to be significantly outperforming their predecessors – both in sales figures and market acceptance.

Exceeded analysts' expectations

Before the quarterly results were released, analysts on average expected revenue of around $132.31 billion for the holiday quarter. Should Apple actually achieve growth of 11 percent, revenue would be significantly higher – at the previously mentioned $136.73 billion. This would not only exceed forecasts but also send a clear signal that Apple is once again growing faster than many had thought possible.

Christmas quarter: iPhone 17 as a sales driver

Apple remains in a strong financial position. Its confident outlook for the holiday quarter is based on concrete figures and the successful launch of the iPhone 17. If the forecasts prove accurate, the company will not only exceed external expectations but also its own previous results – and post another record quarter. (Image: Shutterstock / Ringo Chiu)