Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup sold 14% more units than the iPhone 16 lineup in the first 10 days of availability in China and the United States, according to Counterpoint Research.
The budget iPhone 17 is driving the early momentum, with sell-out nearly one-third higher globally compared to the previous model. According to Counterpoint, base model sales in China nearly quadrupled compared to the iPhone 16. Buyers were drawn to better value for money — a new chip, brighter display, larger base storage, and an upgraded selfie camera — all at the same price as last year’s model.
In the U.S., the iPhone 17 Pro Max is showing the strongest demand during the first two weekends. Counterpoint attributed the surge to leading carriers raising maximum subsidies by about $100 and pushing longer 24- to 36-month financing options, as many customers who bought during the COVID-19 era return to upgrade.
The research firm also reported that the eSIM-only iPhone Air is selling slightly better than the iPhone 16 Plus. Pre-orders for the Air began in China on October 17, with sales expected to start by the end of the month. Given its price point and the high specifications of the standard iPhone 17, analysts believe the Air will remain a niche product at launch.
China and the U.S. remain Apple’s largest iPhone markets by volume. According to Counterpoint’s weekly sell-out trackers, Apple’s current mix favors the base iPhone 17 in China and the Pro Max in the U.S., boosted by promotions and carrier incentives. Future sales momentum will depend on supply stability, competitor moves, and year-end holiday demand, the research firm said.
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