Apple’s iPhone 17 series has seen stronger first weekend pre-orders compared to last year’s iPhone 16 lineup. Early indicators suggest that consumer demand is trending higher this cycle, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max again emerging as the most popular option. However, the newly launched iPhone Air appears to be facing slower uptake during its initial pre-order window.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shared his detailed breakdown, noting that production volume for the iPhone 17 Pro Max, Pro, and standard models in the third quarter of 2025 is approximately 25% higher year-over-year compared to the iPhone 16. Despite the increase, shipping times have only stretched by about one week, a sign of strong demand across the main lineup.
The iPhone Air is a different case. While it is available for immediate purchase, which points to lower initial demand compared to the iPhone 16 Plus last year, Apple has dramatically scaled up production. Kuo reported that iPhone Air production for Q3 2025 is three times higher than the iPhone 16 Plus in Q3 2024. Because this is the first time Apple has introduced a model positioned like the Air, he emphasized that true demand trends will be clearer after customers can try the phone in stores. In a follow-up post, Kuo added that the Air might not impress on specifications alone but could convert interest once people experience its thin and light design in person.
The strongest performer remains the iPhone 17 Pro Max. According to Kuo, production for this model is up by about 60% compared to the iPhone 16 Pro Max in the same quarter last year. Despite the significant increase, shipping times are roughly the same, underscoring the Pro Max’s consistent position as Apple’s best-selling model.
Overall, Kuo concluded that the iPhone 17 series is off to a better start than the iPhone 16. This should benefit Apple’s third-quarter 2025 financial results. However, the impact on supply chain stocks may remain muted, as investors are already looking ahead to the next wave of major Apple innovations expected in 2026.
The early pre-order trends reflect Apple’s ability to balance higher supply with robust demand, particularly for its premium models. The iPhone Air’s performance will be an important metric to watch over the coming months, as real-world impressions and in-store experiences could determine whether Apple’s thinnest iPhone yet gains momentum.
