Ming-Chi Kuo predicts lower demand for the iPhone 15 compared to the iPhone 14

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shared his predictions about the upcoming iPhone 15 series, and it seems that the demand for these new devices might not reach the heights seen with the iPhone 14 series last year. According to Kuo’s insights, this potential dip in demand could pose challenges for Apple’s suppliers as they strive to boost their revenue in the latter half of 2023.

The forthcoming iPhone lineup is expected to feature four models: the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Among the most anticipated improvements across all models are the inclusion of a USB-C port and the introduction of the Dynamic Island feature, which, until now, was exclusive to the iPhone 14 Pro variants. The iPhone 15 Pro models, in particular, are rumored to receive a substantial array of upgrades, including a faster A17 Bionic chip, a sleek titanium frame, a customizable Action button, slimmer bezels around the display, Wi-Fi 6E support, and an impressive 5-6x optical zoom for the Pro Max camera, among other enhancements.

Analyst Tim Long from British bank Barclays predicts that these additional features and advancements may come at a cost, with iPhone 15 Pro models likely to be priced $100 to $200 higher than their iPhone 14 counterparts in the U.S. Such price hikes could potentially impact consumer demand, especially with some individuals being more cautious with their discretionary spending due to inflation trends over the past few years.

It is crucial to remember that Ming-Chi Kuo’s forecast remains a prediction, and the true reception of the iPhone 15 series will only be evident once these devices hit the market. The inclusion of the much-anticipated USB-C port and the extension of the Dynamic Island to the standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models could act as driving forces to boost sales for these lower-end variants.

The official unveiling of the iPhone 15 series is expected to take place in early September.