iPhone 17 hits the market – strong demand in China and the USA

The iPhone 17 has only recently launched, but sales figures already show a clear trend. The most affordable model, as well as the high-end iPhone 17 Pro Max, are enjoying particularly strong demand. New market research data shows that the iPhone 17 series is outperforming its predecessor – both in the US and China, Apple's two most important markets.

Apple has clearly struck the right balance with the iPhone 17. While the entry-level model scores primarily for its value, the iPhone 17 Pro Max, with its premium features and attractive provider subsidies, is attracting interest in the high-end segment. The numbers speak for themselves: The new series is outselling the iPhone 16 series – and this at a time when many are buying a new device for the first time since the pandemic.

Base iPhone 17 with strong start – especially in China

The standard iPhone 17 model is doing better than its predecessor. In the first ten days after its launch, demand is around 31 percent higher than the iPhone 16 last year. The model is proving particularly popular in China. According to a report by Counterpoint Research, consumers there are responding positively to the device's strong value for money.

China plays a central role in this. The market is one of Apple's most important worldwide. The strong demand for the iPhone 17 there underscores the success of the new entry-level model.

iPhone 17 Pro Max dominates the premium segment in the US

While the base model is in particular demand in China, the iPhone 17 Pro Max accounts for the largest share of demand in the US. The reason: The three largest US wireless providers have increased their maximum subsidies by ten percent – or $100. This lowers the barrier to entry for premium buyers and demonstrates that Apple is specifically targeting the ultra-premium segment.

Demand for the Pro Max model has increased by twelve percent compared to the previous year. This also underscores Apple's success with its differentiated pricing and product strategy.

Total sales of the iPhone 17 series exceed the level of the iPhone 16 series

Comparing the first ten days after launch, the iPhone 17 series in the US and China is 14 percent higher than the iPhone 16 series in the same period. This applies to both the base model and the high-end model—two very different devices that have both apparently found their market.

Market report: iPhone 17 catapults Apple to the top

iPhone Air: Sold out quickly despite delayed launch

Although the iPhone Air was available later than the other models in China, it still attracted attention. According to a report in the South China Morning Post, the device sold out in several cities – including Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin – within minutes of its launch. Demand is also high online. Delivery dates for many configurations have now been postponed until November. The report suggests that many iPhone users are considering an upgrade after a long wait – for many, this is their first new device since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

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Market launch shows: iPhone 17 is a hit

The iPhone 17 series is off to a strong start in the global market. The entry-level model is impressing with a significant increase in demand, especially in China. At the same time, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is proving to be a best-seller in the premium segment in the US – not least thanks to targeted subsidy policies from mobile providers. The iPhone Air is also making a strong impact despite its delay. Overall, the new models significantly outperform the previous year's generation – a clear success for Apple. (Image: Apple)