Apple Defies Expectations with Strong iPhone Sales in China
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Mar 19 2026
0mins
Should l Buy AAPL?
Source: CNBC
- Strong Performance in China: In the first nine weeks of 2026, Apple saw a 23% surge in iPhone sales in China, contrasting sharply with a 4% year-over-year decline in the overall smartphone market, demonstrating Apple's resilience and strong market share amidst fierce competition.
- Financial Results Exceed Expectations: During the holiday quarter, Apple's revenue in Greater China jumped 38% to $25.53 billion, surpassing estimates by approximately $4.7 billion, indicating robust consumer enthusiasm for the iPhone 17 lineup and a strong demand for upgrades.
- Cost Management Advantage: By securing long-term memory supply contracts, Apple effectively managed costs and avoided price hikes due to the global memory shortage, further solidifying its competitive position in the market.
- AI Partnership Enhances Competitiveness: Apple's multi-year partnership with Google to leverage Gemini AI technology for Siri enhances its product intelligence, and while the annual fee of around $1 billion is significant, it provides crucial support for Apple's efforts to catch up in the AI space.
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Analyst Views on AAPL
Wall Street analysts forecast AAPL stock price to rise
27 Analyst Rating
17 Buy
9 Hold
1 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 270.230
Low
239.00
Averages
306.89
High
350.00
Current: 270.230
Low
239.00
Averages
306.89
High
350.00
About AAPL
Apple Inc. designs, manufactures and markets smartphones, personal computers, tablets, wearables and accessories, and sells a variety of related services. Its product categories include iPhone, Mac, iPad, and Wearables, Home and Accessories. Its software platforms include iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS. Its services include advertising, AppleCare, cloud services, digital content and payment services. The Company operates various platforms, including the App Store, that allow customers to discover and download applications and digital content, such as books, music, video, games and podcasts. It also offers digital content through subscription-based services, including Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, Apple Music, Apple News+, and Apple TV+. Its products include iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16, iPhone 15, iPhone 14, iPhone SE, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac mini, Mac Studio, Mac Pro, iPad Pro, iPad Air, AirPods, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, Apple TV, Apple Vision Pro and others.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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