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Apple set an iPhone sales record even without a new standard iPhone
Apple reported record iPhone revenue of $57.58 billion in its fourth quarter, up 17 per cent from a year earlier, despite not releasing a standard iPhone model in its latest refresh. The result followed the September launch of the more expensive iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, and matters as Apple faces rising memory costs and supply constraints.
Overall revenue rose 12 per cent to $114.5 billion. Mac revenue increased 24 per cent to $10.79 billion, while services reached $31.57 billion; iPad revenue fell 10 per cent to $6.23 billion. The newly announced foldable iPhone Duo’s preorders were not included, and limited launch stock meant some estimated delivery dates extended into 2027.
In short
- iPhone revenue rose 17 per cent to a quarterly record.
- Apple’s total revenue reached $114.5 billion.
- iPad sales fell, while Mac and services grew.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The record suggests Apple’s premium-led strategy is working: customers were willing to buy more expensive Pro models even without a new standard iPhone, lifting revenue despite supply constraints. Focusing launches on higher-end devices may help Apple sustain sales and invest in its wider product and services business amid rising component costs.
The case against
A single strong quarter does not show that delaying a standard model is a durable strategy; demand may reflect the appeal of the Pro launch or customers bringing purchases forward. Limited stock and long delivery estimates also mean reported revenue may not capture unmet demand, while the iPad decline and rising memory costs point to risks that a premium-led approach may not offset.
Explained simply
Apple is a US technology company whose iPhone is its best-known product and a major source of income. It also sells Macs and iPads, and earns money from services such as app sales and subscriptions.
In recent years, Apple has released different iPhone models at different times, including higher-priced Pro versions. Its results matter to investors and suppliers, while the cost and availability of components such as memory chips can affect how many devices it can make and how much they cost.
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