Apple’s latest flagship series, the iPhone 16, has not started with the bang the tech giant was hoping for. Early pre-order data, compiled by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, reveals that despite Apple’s hopes for a runaway success, the Pro models are falling short in popularity while the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus see unexpected increases.
What went wrong?
Apple kept prices stable, amped up RAM and NPU performance, and even introduced faster charging over USB-C and MagSafe. But some decisions have raised eyebrows: the basic models still come with outdated 60Hz displays, while Android competitors, even at lower price points, boast 120Hz refresh rates. Apple may be learning the hard way that consumers expect more, especially from a brand with such a sterling reputation.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max, with its massive 6.9” screen, seems too large for 15% of potential buyers. Meanwhile, nearly half of voters in a recent poll expressed an interest in switching to Android, showing that Apple might have underestimated the appeal of its competition. However, it’s not all bad news — the 16 Pro’s smaller 6.3” screen has been well-received, and the 16 Plus saw a 48% rise in pre-orders compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 15 Plus, even though overall interest remains lukewarm.
Some speculate that the delayed arrival of Apple Intelligence, expected to enhance the iPhone’s capabilities, may have played a role in the lackluster pre-orders. But with the holiday season around the corner and the Pro Max likely to be a top-seller by year’s end, Apple still has a chance to turn things around. Only time will tell if the company can regain its mojo or if Android will continue to win the hearts of frustrated iPhone users. Apple’s Q1 2025 results may hold the answer.
