iPhone 17 Demand Surge: Apple Can Target 315 Million Devices Unupgraded for Over Four Years

Apple has seen astonishing demand for its iPhone 17 lineup, facing minimal resistance from its competitors. This year marks a significant shift for the Cupertino-based company, as they have introduced substantial upgrades across all four models, rather than concentrating solely on their premium options.

A noteworthy development for Apple is that approximately 315 million devices currently in use are over four years old. This statistic suggests a vast opportunity for upgrades, as many owners might find a specific model from the latest four releases particularly appealing, especially in terms of new features that justify the investment.

21% of Current iPhone Owners Have a Genuine Reason to Upgrade to the iPhone 17

Apple has made strides in improving the base model of the iPhone 17, particularly with hardware enhancements. Notably, the new ProMotion display and a doubled internal memory are significant draws. With a starting price of $799, this model becomes an attractive option for consumers looking for quality without spending on flagship devices.

According to a report from AppleInsider, there is a considerable demand for the newly launched models. Among the 1.5 billion devices currently operational, about 21%—equating to approximately 315 million—are over four years old. Many users may have retained their devices out of necessity, but with Apple’s compelling upgrades in the iPhone 17, the stage is set for a significant sales surge.

Forecasts indicate that Apple plans to ship around 100 million new iPhones this year, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max expected to sell the highest volume. Given these dynamics, estimates for Apple’s fiscal 2026 iPhone shipments have been adjusted upward to between 240 million and 250 million units. Additionally, analysts from Wedbush Securities anticipate a recovery in sales within the Chinese market, bolstered by these new offerings.

The upcoming holiday season is also anticipated to drive iPhone activations sharply upwards. Whether Apple can sustain this sales trajectory remains to be seen, but this is a topic we will explore further as the year wraps up. Be sure to stay connected for updates on this ongoing story.

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