According to a report by Tianfeng International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple (AAPL, Financial) is adopting a cautious approach in discussions with key suppliers regarding this year's iPhone production plans. Despite the anticipated release of the new iPhone SE4 in the first half, iPhone shipments are expected to decrease by approximately 6% year-over-year in the first half. This decline is primarily attributed to flat shipments in the first quarter as the company seeks to avoid stockpiling in light of tariff changes after Trump's administration. The second quarter is anticipated to see a more significant drop in shipments.
Furthermore, Kuo predicts that the smartphone shipment volume in the Chinese market for December 2024 will remain comparable to the same period in 2023. However, iPhone shipments in China may decrease by about 10% to 12%, indicating a continued shrinkage in Apple's market share in the region.