While the iPhone 5 in certain consumers’ minds is considered a ‘minor upgrade,’ they have to realize the phone has a larger display, faster processing, and updated operating system. That is an enormous upgrade, especially to those who currently own the iPhone 4.
The iPhone is such a great device that analyst Shaw Wu of Sterne Agee had updated his holiday season quarter sale estimate to 46.5 million units (powered by the iPhone 5). He previously estimated 46 million units would sell during the quarter. This would be a significant feat because Apple’s current record is 37 million back during the 2011 holiday season.
Whereas Apple has the ability to sell that many units during the holiday season, it may not be quite easy. Wu noted that production constraints of in-cell panels for the iPhone 5 may cause shortage issues. This has been a problem that sources have noted countless times during the iPhone 5’s pre-release stage.
Wu’s thoughts on iPhone 5 sales: (via AppleInsider)
In Wu’s view, those who do not think Apple’s latest handset will be a success “underestimate” the iPhone 5. He thinks the device will place a great deal of pressure on competitors, and will help Apple capture customers who may have otherwise purchased an Android or Windows phone with a larger screen or 4G LTE connectivity.
In our current quarter which ends September 30th, Wu projects Apple will sell 27 million iPhones, highly supported by sales of the iPhone 5, which will launch this Friday.
How many iPhones do you think Apple will sell during the 2012 holiday season?
[via AppleInsider]
