Overview
- Counterpoint Research's Oct. 27 report estimates iPhone 18 Pro series sales were 3.1% higher in the first three post‑launch weeks than the iPhone 17 Pro period, with China up about 29% and accounting for most of the gain.
- Sales in Apple’s traditionally strong markets were weaker, with the United States down roughly 4% and Japan down about 27% year‑on‑year during the same launch window.
- Retailers and analysts in India reported festive‑season sell‑through fell by as much as 30%, leaving excess channel inventory and prompting forecasts for a double‑digit shipment decline in India for 2026.
- Apple has confirmed a fault affecting a small number of iPhone Duo units where the inner screen can crack and has told customers to contact AppleCare for replacements while initial Duo supply remains very limited.
- Analysts say uncertainty persists because Apple staggered the rollout to prioritise high‑end models, prices and exchange‑rate moves are cooling upgrades, and near‑term signals to watch include whether China’s surge is front‑loaded and how Duo availability and durability affect broader demand.