Apple has released its financial results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, achieving new record highs. Both total revenue and earnings per share reached record levels. The iPhone business and the Services segment performed particularly well, both reaching new record highs. The quarter ended on December 27, 2025, and thus includes Apple's traditionally strongest revenue-generating holiday quarter.
The first quarter is particularly important for Apple, as it provides early insight into demand for its products and services and reflects the economic outlook for the entire fiscal year. The latest figures show that Apple continues to grow despite a challenging market environment. The combination of strong demand, robust margins, and a broad product and service portfolio is once again paying off.
Record sales and new profit record
Apple reported revenue of $143.8 billion for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026. This represents a 16 percent increase compared to the same quarter of the previous year and sets a new record. Diluted earnings per share were $2.84, a 19 percent increase year-over-year. Here, too, Apple achieved a new record high.
CEO Tim Cook described the quarter as remarkable and record-breaking. Revenue significantly exceeded expectations and demonstrates the continued strength of the business.
iPhone sales at a new all-time high
The iPhone was the most important growth driver in the December quarter. According to Tim Cook, Apple recorded its best quarter ever for the iPhone. Demand was exceptionally high, and record figures were achieved in all geographic segments. This once again confirms the iPhone's central role in Apple's overall success.
Services with strong growth
The services sector also performed very well. Revenue from services increased by 14 percent year-over-year, reaching a new record high. This segment includes the App Store, Apple Music, iCloud, and Apple TV. This continued growth demonstrates how strongly Apple is expanding its recurring revenue streams and further strengthening its ecosystem.
Installed device base exceeds new mark
Another milestone concerns the installed base of active devices. Apple announced that more than 2.5 billion active devices are now in use worldwide. This figure underscores the high level of customer satisfaction and loyalty, as well as the broad reach of the Apple ecosystem across all product categories.
High cash flow and returns to shareholders
Chief Financial Officer Kevan Parekh explained that record business performance in the December quarter resulted in operating cash flow of nearly $54 billion. Based on this, Apple was able to return approximately $32 billion to shareholders. These returns resulted from dividend payments and other capital measures.
Dividend approved and payment scheduled
Apple's board of directors has declared a cash dividend of $0.26 per common share. The payment will be made on February 12, 2026, to shareholders who are registered in the stock register as of the close of business on February 9, 2026. Apple is thus continuing its consistent and stable dividend policy.
Conference call on the quarterly figures
Apple will live stream its earnings call for the first quarter of 2026. The webcast will be available on Apple's investor relations page and will remain available for approximately two weeks afterward.
Apple lays the foundation for a successful 2026
Apple kicked off fiscal year 2026 with an exceptionally strong quarter. Record revenue, a new all-time high in earnings per share, historically strong iPhone sales, and continued growth in service revenue paint a clear picture. Added to this are a steadily expanding installed base, strong cash flow, and substantial shareholder returns. Overall, the figures underscore Apple's financial strength and the stability of its business model. (Image: Shutterstock / Bigc Studio)
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