Apple launched three new iPhones during the September 12 event, namely the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and the iPhone X. However, only the first two will be released on September 22, while the third handset will be available on November 3. According to a KGI report, the delayed release of the flagship Apple phone is negatively impacting the preorders for the two phones, which started on September 15.
What does the report say about preorders?
According to KGI Securities analysts, many Apple fans are not preordering the available Apple smartphones due to the fact that the iPhone X release has been pushed back.
Normally, the flagship Apple phone is released alongside the refreshed models, with preorders starting at the same time as well. In such cases, the preordered handsets take around 3 or 4 weeks to be delivered to consumers.
However, this time Apple started preorders for the non-premium Apple phones on September 15 and will start shipping within just a week or two. This is because Apple will then gear up for the preorders of the flagship model, which is set to start on October 27. Usually, consumers want to buy the premium iPhones, which is why many of them are holding back from preordering the other two phones. They want to have a better look at the top-end Apple device before finally making a decision regarding which iPhone to purchase.
This is why the preorders for the refreshed models of iPhones to be released this year has not been as strong as the previous years.
Apple Watch Series 3 preorders
On the brighter side, KGI reports that the preorders for the new timepiece from Apple have been especially strong. Specifically, the Watch Series 3 LTE variant's preorders have defied expectations and these are scheduled to be shipped in 3-4 weeks.
KGI Securities had previously predicted that only around 30 to 40 percent of the preorders for the smartwatch would be for the cellular connectivity version. However, almost 90 percent of the Watch Series 3 preorders are for the LTE variant.
The Watch Series 3 cellular model supports LTE connectivity and does not require an iPhone for data connections.
The timepiece can make and receive calls and text messages completely independent of the wearer's iPhone. This may be why consumers are lining up for the wearable. So, even though the preorders for the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus have been disappointing so far, Apple will be delighted with the response from consumers for the Watch Series 3.
