Apple iPhone Lead Times Are Stretching — Analyst Sees Strong Year-End Demand

Core Viewpoint - Apple Inc is demonstrating strong iPhone demand as indicated by lengthening delivery lead times for its latest models across key global markets, with an Overweight rating maintained by JPMorgan analyst Samik Chatterjee [1] Group 1: Demand Indicators - In Week 14, lead times for iPhone 17 increased by one day, suggesting stronger year-over-year demand compared to the flat lead times of iPhone 16 during the same period last year [2] - Average lead times for iPhone 17 are now around five days, up from three days a year ago, indicating stronger and more durable demand heading into year-end [3] - Base-model lead times exceed one week, which is a primary driver of higher demand, while Pro Max lead times have expanded modestly over the past four weeks [3] Group 2: Global and Regional Trends - Globally, lead times for all iPhone 17 models rose compared to the previous week, with home delivery averaging nine days for iPhone 17, three days for Air and Pro, and six days for Pro Max [4] - In the U.S., lead times reached eight days for iPhone 17 and four days for Air, with Pro and Pro Max lead times extending to four and six days respectively, aligning with global trends [5] - In China, base-model lead times expanded modestly while Pro Max delays eased slightly, and in Europe, lead times increased modestly, with variations observed in Germany and the UK [6] Group 3: Availability and Market Performance - All iPhone models remained available for in-store pickup across China, Germany, and the UK, indicating sufficient supply despite increased lead times [7] - At the time of publication, Apple shares were down 0.94% at $275.65, reflecting market performance amidst these demand signals [7]