Initial orders for the iPhone 15 Pro Max show “robust” demand, outpacing last year’s iPhone 14 Pro Max, according to TF Securities International analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
Demand for the regular iPhone 15 looks similar to 2022’s models, the analyst said.
More consumers opt for iPhone 15 Pro Max this year
Interestingly, consumer interest in the iPhone 15 Pro is lower than in previous years. This year, more consumers seem to be opting for the iPhone 15 Pro Max over the regular Pro due to the former’s exclusive 5x telephoto camera. The iPhone 15 Pro continues to pack a 3x telephoto camera like the iPhone 14 Pro. (If you are confused about differences between the two models, go through our iPhone 15 Pro versus Pro Max comparison to decide which is right for you.)
Apple’s average selling price for iPhones should benefit from the strong Pro Max demand. The bigger model starts at $200 more than the regular Pro.
On launch day last Friday, iPhone 15 Pro Max shipping times quickly slipped to late October or early November for many configurations. But Kuo said the strong demand for the bigger model is not the only reason behind this. The iPhone 15 Pro Max entered mass production later than other iPhone 15 models, so the initial supply is limited. Plus, Apple is running into more manufacturing challenges with the Max model.
Huawei’s comeback could affect iPhone demand
In his Medium post, Kuo says that contrary to other reports, the Chinese government’s ban on using iPhones won’t affect Apple much. A specific state-owned government organization announced the ban.
However, the analyst thinks Huawei’s comeback could eventually affect iPhone sales, but it is unclear when or how much. iPhone 15 preorder demand in China remains unaffected by Huawei releasing a flagship phone in its home country after a few years.
Overall, the analyst predicts Apple will ship 80 million iPhone 15 units this year.
Apple is currently accepting preorders for the iPhone 15 in 40-plus markets. The devices will hit stores this Friday, September 22. The company will release the first public build of iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 on Monday.
