iPhone 17 Off to a Thunderous Start in China

The iPhone 17 is captivating consumers in China, boasting an impressive volume of preorders. According to reports, initial sales at JD.com, one of China's leading online retailers, eclipsed the preorders of the iPhone 16 on its launch day last year.

Most Sought-After Model: iPhone 17 256GB

The base model, featuring 256 GB of storage, has emerged as the frontrunner among buyers. Its affordability and enhanced features make it a top contender in the smartphone market.

Unmatched Upgrades at a Familiar Price

This year’s model stands out not just for its price tag but also for its noteworthy upgrades. Apple has increased the screen size from 6.1 to 6.3 inches and introduced a 120 Hz ProMotion refresh rate along with always-on display capabilities. Additionally, the selfie camera has received significant improvements, while the ultra-wide lens now offers a stunning 48-megapixel resolution. Even better, Apple has doubled the base storage to 256 GB, all while maintaining the same starting price of $799 from last year.

Positive News for Investors

Strong iPhone 17 sales come as a relief to investors, especially those concerned about Apple's dwindling market share in China due to increasing competition from local brands.

U.S. Availability and Anticipation

In the United States, early birds may find availability limited, with the Apple Online Store reporting delivery times of 2-3 weeks for certain configurations. Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 Pro is also seeing a favorable response from consumers.

What’s Next for Apple?

Apple is set to announce its third-quarter earnings at the upcoming quarterly investor call this October, although this will only reflect a couple of weeks’ worth of iPhone sales. The bulk of the demand for the iPhone 17, iPhone Air, and iPhone 17 Pro is anticipated to be recognized in the bustling holiday quarter.

iPhone Air Hit with Regulatory Delays

While the iPhone 17 thrives, the highly anticipated iPhone Air is facing an indefinite launch delay due to pending eSIM-related regulatory approvals. This setback adds an element of intrigue to Apple's product lineup as consumers eagerly await the next release.