The iPhone 14 launch is imminent. News from China suggests that Apple is already planning production. According to IThome, Apple is starting test production of the iPhone 14 while mass production is expected to start next month.
While iPhone 13 sales were positive, Wall Street analysts believe the iPhone 14 will sell much better. However, this contradicts analyst Brian White's prediction that the iPhone 14 will struggle with weak consumer spending this fall. White explained in a note to clients:
With the weaker economy and inflationary forces impacting budgets, consumers may be more cautious about purchasing Apple's upcoming iPhone innovation this fall and may wait until the economic inferno passes before making such a purchase.
iPhone 14 announcement expected in September
Although global smartphone sales are declining overall, Apple's current product portfolio is number one on the market. Sales remain strong, especially in China. COVID-19 lockdowns began to ease back in June and the country celebrated a shopping holiday. According to analyst Krish Sankar, this "strong recovery in Chinese consumer demand" has helped the iPhone 13 maintain its momentum at this late stage of its life cycle. Not only do analysts believe that the iPhone 14 will perform better, but so does Apple itself. IThome mentioned also that the company has given its suppliers a slightly higher sales forecast than last year. With production starting next month, we should expect Apple to announce its latest flagship at a keynote in September. (Image: Ian Zelebo x Jon Prosser)