iPhone 16 Pre-orders Down 12.7% Compared to Last Year's iPhone 15 [Kuo]

iPhone 16 pre-orders are allegedly down 12.7% year-over-year compared to last year's iPhone 15 series, according to a new report from TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

Kuo estimates that first-weekend pre-order sales for the iPhone 16 reached approximately 37 million units, with demand for the new models falling below expectations. He also highlights that delivery times for the iPhone 16 Pro are noticeably shorter than those for the iPhone 15 Pro, further indicating weaker demand for the Pro model.




Apple has delayed the launch of new artificial intelligence features in iOS 18, which may be contributing to lower-than-expected demand.

The significant YoY growth in shipments before pre-order for iPhone 16 Pro Max is due to improved tetraprism camera production yields and Apple's optimistic outlook for demand for this model. One of the key factors for the lower-than-expected demand for the iPhone 16 Pro series is that the major selling point, Apple Intelligence, is not available at launch alongside the iPhone 16 release. Additionally, intense competition in the Chinese market continues to impact iPhone demand. While first-weekend sales of the iPhone 16 Plus and standard version were up YoY, their impact on total iPhone shipments is limited.

Kuo believes Apple is unlikely to modify its production plans based on first weekend pre-order sales. The company still has many opportunities to drive sales including the release of Apple Intelligence, holiday season promotions, and Double 11 in China. However, if those don't improve demand, Apple could implement more aggressive strategies to stimulate market demand in 2025.

Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for more iPhone updates!