The latest report from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo indicates that Apple is not very hopeful about its iPhone shipments in 2024. In response, Apple has decreased its orders for semiconductor components from suppliers by as much as 15%. Kuo predicts that Apple will experience a 10-15% decrease in shipments for its iPhone 15 and upcoming iPhone 16 series in comparison to the numbers from 2023.
In addition, Apple is encountering a decline in sales in China, with weekly shipments falling by 30-40% annually. Kuo also mentions that foldable phones and generative AI features are significant selling points for high-end users in China, neither of which Apple currently offers. This is seen as a major disadvantage for the company. Looking forward, Kuo believes that Apple will not introduce any major design changes or generative AI features on its iPhones until 2025, which could further impact its shipment momentum negatively.