With all the pre-release hype, the overwhelming positive reviews and the impressively long lines around the world, Apple seems poised to set yet another sales record with the iPhone 6s, but some analysts aren’t so sure.
READ MORE: Sprint boasts that no one is lining up to buy the iPhone 6s at its stores
According to Bloomberg, Pacific Crest Securities analyst Andy Hargreaves believes that prior to release, demand for the iPhone 6s appeared lower than it had for the iPhone 6 a year ago, “perhaps meaningfully so.”
Analysts at Sanford C. Bernstein & Co. and RBC Capital Markets are similarly concerned about Apple’s ability to continue its unparalleled streak, especially when taking into consideration the fact that the iPhone 6s isn’t all that dissimilar from the iPhone 6. In fact, at a glance, the two phones are identical — it’s the addition of 3D Touch, a 12-megapixel camera and upgraded components that have consumers champing at the bit to upgrade.
So what are the chances that Apple underperforms?
Based on everything we’ve seen after just a few hours of the phone going on sale, I’d say “not very good.” With the addition of its own installment program (and the promise of yearly upgrades), Apple stands to collect more than ever before from consumers who prefer not to go through carriers.
Additionally, although this is an ‘S’ year, which typically indicates a down year in terms of tangible upgrades to the phone itself, many are calling 3D Touch one of the most significant additions in the history of the iPhone.
We’ll be sure to check back in next week when the first reports start trickling in.
