iPhone 17 to drive record Apple shipments in 2025, says IDC

Apple is on track for a record-breaking year, with new forecasts suggesting that the iPhone 17 series will push the company’s global shipments to unprecedented levels in 2025. 

In its latest outlook, IDC has predicted that the Cupertino-based tech giant will ship 247.4 million iPhones next year, surpassing its previous peak in 2021. 

The research firm attributes the momentum largely to the “phenomenal success” of the iPhone 17, particularly in China.

According to IDC analyst Nabila Popal, massive demand for the iPhone 17 has sharply accelerated Apple’s performance in its most competitive market. 

The report also noted that shipments in China are expected to climb 17% year-on-year in the fourth quarter, signaling renewed consumer enthusiasm despite rising pressure from local rivals like Huawei.

The launch of the iPhone 17 in September was seen as a critical moment for Apple, which has faced scrutiny over its AI strategy and tougher smartphone competition.

IDC now expects 3% growth in China for the full year, reversing earlier forecasts of a decline.

However, the firm has warned that potential delays to future models, including the base iPhone 18, could impact Apple's near-term trajectory. 

That said, IDC noted that the strength of the iPhone 17 lineup positions Apple for one of its most successful years ever.