Apple expects higher iPhone sales due to strong Pro model demand

Investors and industry analysts are turning their attention back to Apple as the company’s shares hit a new record in October 2025, buoyed by stronger-than-expected demand for its premium iPhone Pro models. This momentum is fueling optimism for a robust holiday quarter and easing concerns about the company’s previous sales slumps.

Pro Models Drive Renewed Optimism

After a period of slower iPhone sales growth, Apple is now seeing a significant uptick in demand for its Pro and Pro Max devices. Early data from key markets, including the U.S., China, and Europe, suggests that consumers are gravitating toward these higher-end models, willing to pay a premium for advanced camera systems, enhanced performance, and new features like improved AI integration and health tracking.

This shift comes as Apple’s overall smartphone market share continues to hold steady in major global markets. In the U.S., iPhones accounted for 54% of smartphone shipments in Q2 2025, reaffirming Apple’s dominance despite increased competition[2].

Market Dynamics and Financial Impact

The renewed demand for Pro models is crucial for Apple’s revenue, as these devices carry higher margins than the standard iPhone lineup. Analysts note that the iPhone still makes up more than half of Apple’s total revenue, with the installed base of active devices now exceeding 1.5 billion users worldwide[1][2].

Apple’s financial rebound is also supported by positive analyst sentiment. For instance, Loop Capital recently upgraded Apple’s stock to “buy,” citing improved iPhone demand as a key driver for future growth[3].

Regional Highlights

• China: Apple’s iPhone shipments in China are forecast to rise 11% year-over-year in the second half of 2025, driven by the launch of the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the iPhone Air, a new, slimmer model that has tested well in pilot markets[1].
• United States: The adoption of eSIM technology, exclusive to the iPhone Air lineup, is sparking consumer interest, further differentiating Apple from competitors[1].
• Global: While overall global iPhone shipments dipped 6% year-over-year in Q3 2025, the company is expected to post full-year growth of about 5%, led by the premium segment[1].

Innovation Ahead

Looking forward, Apple is reportedly accelerating work on its first foldable iPhone and deepening its investment in AI-powered features, aiming to keep pace with rivals that have invested heavily in generative AI and device intelligence. These moves are expected to be central to Apple’s product strategy in 2026 and beyond, even as the company maintains its focus on privacy and security as key selling points.

While battery size and camera advancements remain points of debate among reviewers—especially for the iPhone Air—Apple’s ability to sustain momentum with its Pro lineup and innovative new form factors is making analysts increasingly bullish on the company’s outlook.