Apple’s iPhone 17 series is selling faster than the previous model. Research firm Counterpoint reported that in the first 10 days of release, sales of the iPhone 17 were 14% higher than the iPhone 16 across the United States and China, Apple’s two biggest markets.
The data shows that the base model iPhone 17 nearly doubled its sales in China compared to the iPhone 16 during the same launch period. Overall, the model recorded a 31% sales increase across both countries.
“The base model iPhone 17 is very compelling to consumers, offering great value for money,” said Mengmeng Zhang, senior analyst at Counterpoint. “A better chip, improved display, higher base storage, selfie camera upgrade – all for the same price as last year’s iPhone 16.”
What’s Behind the Surge
Counterpoint attributes the outstanding start to a series of hardware upgrades that give the iPhone 17 more value without a higher price.
The device comes with a new A19 Bionic chip, a brighter OLED display, 256GB base storage, and an upgraded 12MP front camera with enhanced low-light performance.
These improvements appear to have struck a chord with users who skipped upgrading last year, with many seeing the iPhone 17 as a stronger, longer-lasting option.
Analysts also noted that carrier subsidies and trade-in offers boosted early adoption, especially among younger buyers and urban professionals.
Earlier in 2025, Apple faced weak demand in China as competition from Huawei’s Mate 60 Pro and other homegrown brands heated up. The iPhone 17’s strong early showing now shows a potential rebound in market share.
Stores in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen reportedly saw long queues and sell-outs for the base and Pro Max models after the global launch in September 2025. Within a month, Apple had rolled out the series in over 40 countries, marking one of its fastest international expansions.
In short, the iPhone 17’s combination of noticeable performance upgrades, unchanged pricing, and a more consumer-friendly purchase model has given Apple the boost it needed to regain its footing in key markets.
