iPhone 17 Base and Pro Max Models Dominate Early Sales

Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup is off to a strong start, with both ends of the price range, its most affordable and most expensive models, seeing impressive sales. A new market report reveals that the base iPhone 17 is performing particularly well, especially in China, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max is dominating the US market.

iPhone 17 Outpaces iPhone 16 In Early Sales

According to Counterpoint Research, sales of the entry-level iPhone 17 were nearly 31% higher than those of the iPhone 16 during the same launch window last year. Across all models, Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup has sold 14% more units in the first 10 days compared to the iPhone 16 series, driven mainly by strong performance in China and the US, which remain Apple’s biggest markets.

In China, the base iPhone 17 is seeing strong traction, largely because of its better value-for-money positioning. The report notes that many Chinese consumers are upgrading for the first time since the pandemic, drawn to the new design and feature improvements.

Pro Max Leads The Premium Segment In The US

Meanwhile, in the United States, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is leading demand among premium buyers. The report highlights that major carriers in the US have increased their maximum subsidies by 10% (around $100) this year, signaling a strategic focus on high-end users. As a result, sales of the Pro Max are up 12% year-on-year, marking a strong start for Apple’s most expensive model.

iPhone Air Sells Out Instantly In China

While official numbers for the new iPhone Air aren’t available yet due to a delayed launch, early signs suggest strong demand. A report from the South China Morning Post says the iPhone Air sold out within minutes at retail stores across major Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin. Online delivery estimates have already slipped to November for several configurations.

The mix of strong sales for both the budget-friendly iPhone 17 and the premium Pro Max shows that Apple’s strategy to cater to both mainstream and high-end buyers is working. With early data indicating better sales than last year’s models, the iPhone 17 series appears to be resonating with a wider range of users across key global markets.