Apple has had an exceptionally strong quarter. The company reported its best quarterly results ever, significantly exceeding Wall Street expectations. The main driver was once again the iPhone, whose demand was particularly high last quarter. Alongside the financial figures, Apple also announced another key metric: 2.5 billion Apple devices are now actively in use worldwide.
The number of active devices is one of Apple's most important metrics. It shows the size of the installed base upon which revenue from software and services can be built. Every increase in this number expands the potential market for services and, in the long run, strengthens loyalty to the Apple ecosystem. Apple's regular publication of this metric underscores its strategic importance.
2.5 billion active Apple devices in use
According to Apple, 2.5 billion iPhones, Macs, and other Apple devices are currently in active use worldwide. This figure was 2.35 billion in January of last year. A year earlier, Apple reported 2.2 billion active devices.
The increase is remarkable because it's occurring from an already very high level. Between 2024 and 2025, around 150 million new devices were added to the active installed base. Apple is now reporting precisely the same growth for the period from 2025 to 2026. This signifies continuous and stable growth over several years.
Why this number is being closely monitored
As CNBC writer Kif Leswing reports, analysts closely monitor the active device base. It's considered an indicator of the true size of the market for Apple's services and software. The more active devices in circulation, the greater the potential for revenue from subscriptions, apps, and other digital offerings.
This trend shows that Apple not only sells new devices, but also ensures their long-term use. This strengthens the predictability of future revenue and increases the strategic value of the entire ecosystem.
iPhone remains the most important growth driver
A key reason for the current record is still the success of the iPhone. Apple CEO Tim Cook told CNBC that demand for the iPhone this quarter has been "simply incredible".
The iPhone remains the company's core product. For many users, it is their first point of contact with Apple and forms the basis for further purchases within its product portfolio.
The ecosystem as a strategic lever
A key part of Apple's strategy is to build on the success of the iPhone and create a tightly integrated ecosystem. Users who already own an iPhone often also opt for a Mac, an iPad, an Apple Watch, or AirPods.
Each additional device not only increases loyalty to Apple but also expands the overall active device base. This effect is a major contributing factor to Apple's continued growth despite its size.
Outlook on upcoming products
Apple is planning a particularly extensive product offensive for the coming months and years. Reports indicate that more than 20 new products are expected to be released. This broad product range increases the chances of both encouraging existing users to make further purchases and attracting new users to the Apple ecosystem.
Given current demand and planned new products, there is a good chance that Apple could achieve record results again in 2026.
Apple reaches new milestone with active devices
With 2.5 billion active devices, Apple has reached a milestone that clearly demonstrates its global reach and the strength of its ecosystem. The consistent growth of the active installed base, the continued high demand for the iPhone, and ambitious product planning provide a solid foundation for the coming years. Apple has thus shown that even at an extremely high level, further growth is possible. (Image: Apple)
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