Apple kicked off open sales for the iPhone 17 lineup over a month ago, back in September 2025. Numbers from Counterpoint Research show these phones moving faster off shelves than the iPhone 16 models did last year. In the first 10 days available in big markets like China and the US—which handle most iPhone buys worldwide—the whole 17 series beat out the 16 series by 14 percent in units sold.
Breakdown by Model
Start with the base iPhone 17: this one’s flying out, up about 31 percent overall compared to the plain iPhone 16 in those same markets. In China alone, sales nearly doubled for the entry-level model—folks grabbing twice as many as they did the 16 base. Why? It packs upgrades like a snappier processor, sharper screen, more starting storage space, and a better front camera for selfies, all without jacking up the price from last year’s model.
Then the Pro versions: iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max together edged out the 16 Pro and Pro Max by around 12 percent. In the US, the Pro Max specifically dominated the first couple weekends, thanks partly to carriers bumping subsidies by 10 percent or about 100 bucks to lure folks into longer contracts—24 or 36 months—where they stick around and spend more over time.
Don’t forget the new kid, iPhone 17 Air: this slimmer option’s doing better than the iPhone 16 Plus so far. It’s carved a spot for itself, though pre-orders in China just started October 17, 2025, after confirming it’d hit there. Shorter lead time and a higher tag compared to the loaded base 17 might keep it niche, but demand’s solid.
What’s Driving the Buzz
Beyond the hardware tweaks, timing plays a role. People who snagged iPhones during the COVID-19 mess—think 2020-2022 when everyone upgraded for remote work or whatever—are hitting that 3-4 year refresh point now. That’s flooding the market with upgraders ready for new gear, boosting the 17 series across the board.
Price Points to Note
For reference, here’s what these cost in spots like Europe or India—varies by region, but gives a ballpark:
- iPhone 17 Pro: 256GB with 12GB RAM around €1,299 or £1,099; 512GB jumps to €1,549 or £1,299.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: 256GB with 12GB RAM about ₹149,900 in India.
- Base iPhone 17: 256GB with 8GB RAM €949 or £799; 512GB €1,199 or £999.
- iPhone 17 Air: 256GB with 12GB RAM €1,079 or £999; 512GB €1,385 or £1,199.
These are deal prices, so shop around—carriers or stores often bundle discounts.
Overall, the 17 lineup’s off to a hotter start than the 16, especially the base and Air shaking up the mix. If you’re eyeing an upgrade, these early numbers suggest Apple’s nailed the value spot this round.
