Apple is set to report a strong revenue increase for its fiscal fourth quarter, driven primarily by robust iPhone demand in China. Analysts expect Apple to post a 5.7% overall revenue growth, the highest in two years, while iPhone sales may jump 3.8%, breaking a two-quarter streak of declines. Revenue from China is projected to increase by 6.6%, as strategic discounts on platforms like Pinduoduo helped boost iPhone 16 series sales. IDC data suggests that this strong demand has solidified Apple’s position as the second-largest smartphone vendor in the Chinese market for the quarter.
Meanwhile, Apple’s services sector is anticipated to grow by 13.3%, despite scrutiny from U.S. and EU regulators over antitrust issues. With the limited release of Apple Intelligence features and ongoing competition from Huawei and other Chinese brands, Apple’s performance commentary will be closely watched to gauge expectations for the first fiscal quarter of 2025.
On the downside, Apple will also account for a $10 billion tax charge after a European court ruling. Investors and analysts alike are keenly observing Apple’s commentary on iPhone 16 demand and future AI developments, which may signal how the company’s AI-driven “super-cycle” will unfold
