The much-anticipated release of the iPhone 15 family, slated for this fall, is accompanied by a price hike and sleeker bezels. Surprisingly, initial assessments point to a less enthusiastic demand for the upcoming series compared to the remarkable reception witnessed by the iPhone 14 line upon its launch last year.
These insights come from the reputable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, known for his strong connections to the supply chain. In his latest report, he confidently asserts that “demand for the iPhone 15 is lower than that of iPhone 14.”
In his initial remarks, he points out that shipment forecasts for Apple’s hardware products in the latter half of 2023 are universally weaker compared to the same period in 2022. This broader category encompasses not only the new iPhone but also any other devices Apple plans to ship during that time, including potential gadgets introduced at the September event.
Indeed, the current outlook remains speculative, subject to potential changes in the future. As per Kuo’s observations, unless the demand for the iPhone 15 surpasses market expectations post-launch, most suppliers could face growth pressure in the second half of the year.
Notably, this trend is not limited to iPhones alone. Shipment forecasts for all of Apple’s hardware products in the latter half of 2023 are generally weaker compared to the previous year.
However, there is room for the prediction to shift. If Apple explicitly signals its optimism about market demand in the latter half of 2023 or even in 2024, it could alter the trajectory of projections. While such an indication hasn’t emerged yet, it remains a possibility in the future.
Nonetheless, there are dissenting opinions to Kuo’s conclusions. For instance, another analysis suggests that the iPhone 15 might experience a bumper sales period this year, primarily attributed to a significant number of users eligible for upgrading their handsets.
The iPhone 15 series is expected to introduce significant enhancements, including a periscope zoom camera on the Pro Max model, USB-C charging, and larger batteries. However, if budget constraints are a concern, these improvements may not justify replacing a perfectly functional phone, especially if the rumors about a $200 price increase for the Pro models are accurate.
Moreover, the allure of an upgrade diminishes further when considering the impact of iOS 17. This new software version will be compatible with devices as old as the iPhone XS and iPhone XR, offering features like StandBy mode, NameDrop contact sharing, and enhanced capabilities in Messages and FaceTime, coinciding with the iPhone 15’s launch.
It’s essential to keep in mind that weaker demand for a particular iPhone model should be viewed in context, as even a drop in demand for an iPhone represents strong overall demand for smartphones.
While there might be a noticeable decline in sales compared to last year, it’s almost certain that the new iPhone will still achieve substantial sales figures, likely keeping shareholders content.
If you’re undecided about whether the upcoming iPhone is the right fit for you, check out our iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max hubs for additional rumors and leaked information. They may help you make an informed decision.