Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Apple’s iPhone 16 production is proceeding as scheduled. The tech giant’s assembly plans for its quartet of new smartphones remain largely unaltered. However, a slight adjustment has been noted in component orders for the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models, with a minor decrease of 3-5%.
Market interest in the entry-level iPhone 16 variants continues to be underwhelming. In contrast, the higher-end iPhone 16 Pro models are experiencing shipment volumes similar to those of their predecessors, the iPhone 15 Pro series, during the same period last year.
According to industry insights, Apple’s suppliers were instructed to maintain production of both Pro models throughout China’s week-long National Day holiday. This suggests consumer interest in these phones has largely aligned with the company’s projections for this year’s lineup.
However, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo noted that customers are currently experiencing shorter waiting periods for the iPhone 16 Pro compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 15 Pro.
Industry watchers are now waiting for late October, anticipating potential shifts in US market demand and shipment figures. This period coincides with Apple’s planned rollout of iOS 18.1, featuring Apple Intelligence, which is expected to boost sales.
It’s worth noting, however, that this development primarily affects the American market, as the AI features are not slated for immediate release in Europe or China. Even in America, Apple will roll out a limited number of Apple Intelligence features with iOS 18.1 with the rest expected to come out in 2025.
