Apple's Big Bite

The iPhone 16 was already the most-shipped device in Q2, and the iPhone 17 is expected to increase sales further

- By SAMIDHA JAIN

YASH GANGWANI WAS 15 WHEN he first got an iPhone—the iPhone 5, launched in 2012. “I was captivated by the product. It was exceptionally user-friendly, even for a 15 year old,” says the 27-year-old businessman. Ever since, Gangwani has upgraded his iPhone every year. In addition, he also owns other Apple products like the MacBook Air, AirPods and AirPods Pro. “It is fair to say that I cannot imagine using anything other than Apple,” he adds.

The launch of the iPhone 17 series in India has once again highlighted the country's growing obsession with Apple's flagship device. From overnight queues to scuffles outside Apple stores in Mumbai and Delhi, the frenzy surrounding the latest models—especially the orange iPhone 17 Pro—represents the brand's aspirational appeal among Indian consumers. Despite a premium pricing starting at ₹82,900, there is a high demand driven by a mix of brand loyalty, financing schemes and the charm of cutting-edge technology.

Apple's aggressive retail expansion in the country and push for local manufacturing have paid off, as the company set a new record in India, with its annual sales hitting nearly $9 billion in FY25. At its launch event on September 9, it unveiled a range of devices— the iPhone 17 series with smoother displays and smarter cameras; its thinnest phone ever, the iPhone Air; wearables like the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3, and the SE 3; and the AirPods Pro 3. With prices ranging from ₹25,900 to ₹1,59,900, Apple's latest offerings cater to a wide spectrum of users, blending luxury with utility.