iPhone 16 Delivery Cycle Falls Short of Expectations, Apple Explores New Product Lines

iPhone 16 Delivery Cycle Falls Short of Expectations, Apple Explores New Product LinesDespite the recent launch of the highly anticipated iPhone 16 series, market analysts remain cautious about its sales performance. Morgan Stanley analysts point out that the iPhone 16's delivery cycle is lower than the past three iPhone cycles

iPhone 16 Delivery Cycle Falls Short of Expectations, Apple Explores New Product Lines

Despite the recent launch of the highly anticipated iPhone 16 series, market analysts remain cautious about its sales performance. Morgan Stanley analysts point out that the iPhone 16's delivery cycle is lower than the past three iPhone cycles. As of the 11th day following the pre-order launch, the delivery window in the US stands at 15 days, significantly shorter than last year's iPhone 15 (26 days) and iPhone 14 (18 days). While this data point might not accurately predict the entire sales cycle, it does suggest that market demand for the iPhone 16 may be weaker than anticipated.

Meanwhile, Apple is actively testing the iOS 18.0.1 update, expected to be rolled out to iPhone users ahead of next weekend. This update aims to address existing bugs, including touchscreen issues reported in both the iPhone 16 series and certain older models.

Beyond the iPhone 16 series, Apple continues to explore other product lines. Last June, Apple released the VisionPro headset, followed by the official announcement of its China release this June. However, the starting price of 29,999 yuan has deterred many users. To expand its market reach, Apple appears to be considering lower-priced product lines.

Reports suggest that Apple is developing multiple Vision headset products, including the VisionPro2, a budget-friendly Vision headset, and a smart glasses model. The budget-friendly Vision headset is expected to launch in 2025 with a price tag of just half the current headset, around 15,000 yuan. This headset, codenamed N107, will feature weight reduction, improved comfort, and performance enhancements, potentially powered by the M4/M5 chip. However, it will require connection to a Mac or iPhone for operation and offers a narrower field of view (FOV).

The regular iteration, VisionPro2, is expected to begin mass production in the second half of 2025. The core selling point of this new device is its AppleIntelligence functionality, combining spatial computing technology with the significantly enhanced M5 chip. Allegedly, the integration of AppleIntelligence and generative AI, alongside eye tracking and gesture control, will significantly improve the user interaction experience. However, the VisionPro2 will see minimal changes in other hardware configurations and design compared to its predecessor, helping to reduce costs and pricing.

Apart from headsets, Apple is also working on new smart home products, known as HomeAccessory, codenamed "J490". This product features the A18 chip, potentially supporting AppleIntelligence, and includes a square screen and a camera.

Currently, Apple's VisionPro product line has not significantly boosted growth in the headset market. Whether subsequent products can reverse this situation remains to be seen. At the same time, Apple seems to be actively exploring other product market domains, suggesting a potential for more diverse product offerings in the future.