Apple iPhone 17 Launches to Long Lines, focus on Pro Models Amid China and AI Concerns
LONDON – September 20, 2024 – The Apple iPhone 17 went on sale today, drawing significant crowds to flagship stores like the one on Regent Street in London, though questions linger regarding Apple’s performance in the crucial Chinese market and its artificial intelligence strategy. Lines were noticeably longer than those seen at last year’s iPhone 16 launch, with a marked customer preference for the premium iPhone 17 Pro and pro Max models.
The launch comes at a pivotal moment for Apple, as the company navigates slowing smartphone sales globally and increased competition, notably from Chinese manufacturers. While initial demand appears strong in key markets like the UK, analysts are closely watching Apple’s performance in China, were economic headwinds and rising nationalism pose challenges.Together,Apple is under pressure to demonstrate progress in artificial intelligence after a relatively quiet rollout of its AI features late last year.
Customers cited Apple’s consistent innovation and improvements to core features as key drivers for upgrading. “for the last five years, I’ve been in a pattern of constantly upgrading my phone, as every year Apple is bringing something new to the table,” said a customer named Jasmine.Another customer, Michael, a content creator, highlighted the importance of battery life and camera capabilities, stating he opted against the thinner iPhone 17 Air model due to concerns about battery performance and its single-camera setup. “I just don’t know whether or not the battery is going to be able to hold up. And that single camera? I don’t know, it’s just a little bit off-putting on the back,” he explained.
A accomplished iPhone 17 launch could reassure investors following the initial reception to Apple’s AI offerings,which began rolling out in late 2023. Ben wood, chief analyst at CCS Insight, appearing on CNBC’s “Squawk Box Europe,” praised the latest product launches but emphasized the need for Apple to deliver on its AI promises. “There is no question that Apple needs to deliver on AI,” Wood said, adding that the company “dropped the ball” last year with unfulfilled expectations. “apple has to catch up [in AI], but right now, I think they’ve got enough runway to be able to cope in the intervening period.”
