Core Viewpoint - Apple is making significant adjustments to its iPhone release strategy, delaying the standard iPhone 18 to spring 2027 while focusing on high-end models in September 2024 [2][18]. Group 1: Product Line Strategy - Starting from next year, Apple will only release high-end models: iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone 18 Air, while the standard version will be postponed [2]. - This marks the largest change in Apple's release strategy since 2020, aiming for more frequent releases to compete with Android [2][4]. - The iPhone product line will be further segmented into distinct categories: Pro (Max), Air, standard, and entry-level models, along with a new foldable series [2][18]. Group 2: Market Positioning - The differentiation between standard and Pro models is becoming more pronounced, with the standard version serving as a benchmark for the Pro models [11][14]. - The iPhone 16 and 17 series have shown a shift in market share, with mid-range models gaining traction while Pro models see a slight decline [13]. - Apple's strategy to introduce lower-priced models aims to capture budget-sensitive consumers, especially in competitive overseas markets [10][11]. Group 3: Future Outlook - The upcoming iPhone 18 Air is expected to mature in technology and design, potentially replacing the standard version [16]. - The standard iPhone 18 may effectively become a "iPhone 18e Pro," indicating a shift in consumer options towards higher-priced models [18]. - This restructuring of product sales strategy is anticipated to improve Apple's revenue and profit margins in the coming years [18].

Core Viewpoint - Apple is making significant adjustments to its iPhone release strategy, focusing on high-end models and delaying the standard version of the iPhone 18 until spring 2027, which aims to encourage consumers to opt for more expensive models [2][21]. Group 1: Release Strategy Changes - Starting next year, Apple will only release the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone 18 Air, while the standard version will be postponed [2][3]. - This marks the largest change in Apple's release strategy since 2020, with a shift towards more frequent releases to compete with the Android market [3][4]. - The iPhone product line will be further segmented into distinct categories: Pro, Air, standard, and entry-level models, along with a new foldable series [4][21]. Group 2: Market Positioning and Consumer Demand - The diversification of the iPhone lineup is a response to the increasing complexity of consumer demands, as one model cannot satisfy all preferences [6][7]. - Apple's strategy aims to cover a broader price range, making the iPhone more competitive against lower-end smartphones in overseas markets [14][25]. - The company is expected to leverage the entry-level models to boost revenue, especially as higher-end models face declining sales [15][26]. Group 3: Product Differentiation - The gap between standard and Pro models has been widening, with standard versions increasingly serving as a contrast to highlight the Pro models' capabilities [17][18]. - The iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 have shown a trend of narrowing the performance gap, which may lead to a shift in consumer preferences towards Pro models [19][20]. - The upcoming iPhone 18 Air is anticipated to mature in technology and design, potentially replacing the standard version in the future [22][25].