iPhone 11 sales estimates rising after surprisingly strong demand

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iPhone 11 colors
iPhone 11 is enjoying stronger demand than analysts anticipated.
Photo: Apple

Analysts have started raising iPhone 11 shipping estimates after surprisingly strong demand for Apple’s newest handsets.

Initial stock of most models quickly sold out after Apple starting accepting preorders on Friday, September 13. It seems fans are particularly interested in the brand new color options.

The new iPhone lineup isn’t vastly different to 2018’s. You get a faster A13 Bionic chip and greatly-improved cameras, as well as tougher glass and enhanced water-resistance.

The overall design of the devices is identical. But thanks to new colors, more affordable price tags, and some nice upgrade incentives, fans are going wild for iPhone 11.

iPhone 11 in demand

Reliable analyst Ming Chi-Kuo of TF Securities has been keeping a close eye on iPhone 11 availability since preorders opened on Friday. And he says demand is stronger than originally expected.

Customers have been quick to snap up the iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max in the new midnight green color option. The iPhone 11 has proven popular in green and purple.

These new colors, coupled with Apple’s trade-in discounts, interest-free payment plans, and cheaper prices, has helped drive a surprising number of upgrades this year.

Kuo has raised his shipping estimates for 2019 to 70-75 million units — up from 65-75 million units — as a result.

Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives concurs: “iPhone 11 pre-order demand looks good out of the gates,” he wrote in a note to investors yesterday. He’s seeing strong demand for the iPhone 11 Pro.

China welcomes cheaper iPhone 11

Demand for the pricier iPhone 11 Pro has been higher in the United States, Kuo reports. But Apple will be pleased to see that the more affordable iPhone 11, which now starts at $699, is popular in China. “The demand for iPhone 11 in the Chinese market is stronger than that in the U.S. market,” notes Kuo.

China, the world’s fastest-growing smartphone market, has become increasingly important to Apple as sales slow in other markets. But it has struggled to make a big impact there in recent years.

Cupertino will be hoping that its price cut will lead to consistent demand in China over the next 12 months.

The new iPhone lineup makes its debut this Friday, September 20. You’ll be able to buy yours from the Apple Store and supported carriers if you haven’t already preordered.

Via: 9to5Mac

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