Core Viewpoint - Strong demand for the iPhone 17 has significantly boosted Apple's stock price and positioned the company to reclaim its title as the world's largest smartphone maker for the first time since 2011 [1][2][3]. Group 1: Sales Performance - The iPhone 17 has exceeded analysts' expectations for fourth-quarter revenue and earnings per share, contributing to a projected 10% year-over-year growth in smartphone unit sales for Apple [2][3]. - Apple is expected to achieve a market share of 19.4% in the smartphone sector, surpassing current leader Samsung, which is projected to grow by only 4.6% [2][3]. Group 2: Future Outlook - The smartphone market is anticipated to grow by 3.3% year-over-year in 2025, with Apple expected to maintain its leading position through 2029 [3][5]. - The introduction of a foldable iPhone and a budget-friendly iPhone 17e could further enhance Apple's sales in the coming years [5]. Group 3: Financial Projections - Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed optimism about the upcoming December quarter, predicting it to be the best ever for the company and for iPhone sales, with total revenue expected to grow by 10% to 12% year-over-year [6][7]. - Last year's first-quarter revenue was $124.30 billion, and the projected growth would result in this year's revenue ranging from $136.73 billion to $139.22 billion [7]. - iPhone revenue in the first quarter of last year was $69.14 billion, with expectations for this year to exceed $76.06 billion based on a 10% growth rate [8]. Group 4: Stock Performance - Apple stock has seen a 0.6% increase to $278.52, reaching new all-time highs of $280.38 during intraday trading, and is up 14.2% year-to-date in 2025 [10].