Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max: Stable Lead Times Amid Strong Demand
Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) has achieved consistent global lead times for its iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, while the iPhone Air is readily available across nearly all configurations.
An analysis by Bank of America Securities reveals that robust demand and regional disparities continue to influence the shipment schedules for the iPhone 17.
Notably, the Pro Max is experiencing longer lead times in China, coinciding with the Air’s imminent launch in that market, a clear indication of sustained interest worldwide.
Bank of America Securities analyst Wamsi Mohan has reiterated a Buy rating for Apple, assigning a target price of $270.
Over the past fortnight, Mohan observed that lead times for both the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max have remained steady.
As of October 13, the global average shipping time is recorded at 13 days for the iPhone 17 Pro and 20 days for its Pro Max counterpart.
In the United States, carriers are outperforming Apple’s own delivery estimates, with Pro models averaging six days and Pro Max models 13 days, notably quicker than Apple’s stated 2–3 weeks.
Mohan highlighted that Apple’s impressive capital returns, prospective advancements in AI, and the potential for new products and markets substantiate the Buy rating.
He noted that iPhone 17 shipping dates are extending relative to previous years, attributing this to either heightened demand or marginally lower production capacity.
Carrier websites in the U.S. showcase an average shipping time of seven days, contrasting sharply with Apple’s forecast of 2–3 weeks, while the international average stands at 18 days.
Insights on Demand in China
In China, lead times for the Pro Max have escalated to 3–4 weeks—approximately one week more than in other regions—while Pro models have improved to just 1–2 weeks, now better than other international territories, according to Mohan.
The standard iPhone 17 is holding firm with 18-day lead times in China, consistent with other locales, the analyst noted.
The iPhone Air is enjoying robust availability, boasting a global average shipping time of just one day, and virtually all configurations are available for immediate purchase.
Mohan indicated that the Air’s launch in China is set to take place shortly, with pre-orders commencing on October 17 and in-store availability beginning on October 22, anticipating substantial local demand.
Overall, Mohan emphasizes that the lead times, along with regional variations and solid U.S. carrier availability, point to a continuing strong demand for Apple’s latest iPhone offerings.
Mohan has predicted that Apple’s fiscal 2025 sales will reach $416.04 billion.
AAPL Price Movement: At the time of publication on Wednesday, Apple shares rose by 0.84%, reaching $249.86.
Source link: Inkl.com.
