Apple made one of the best decisions for the iPhone 17 launch when it equipped the base model with flagship features, such as an LTPO OLED panel paired with the A19 SoC, which is mass produced on TSMC’s 3nm process. Sticking with the same $799 but offering double the storage, it was no surprise that the iPhone 17 would gain popularity, especially in China. Despite the myriad of options, not to mention consumers displaying an affinity towards domestic brands, Apple defied overwhelming odds as its base model approaches 30 million activations, which also explains why the iPhone 18 has been delayed to 2027.
As Chinese competitors are forced to raise the prices of their flagships, the iPhone 17 continues to chip away at their market share
Previously published statistics from Counterpoint Research revealed that the iPhone 17 was the best-selling smartphone in Q1 2026, but the firm didn’t go in-depth as to how far its reach goes when discussing the biggest smartphone market in the world, which is China. According to MyDrivers, which came across data from Weibo tipster’ RD Observation,’ the base iPhone 17 is on track to reach 30 million activations, with the previous figure recorded at 29.19 million units.
Despite the iPhone 18 being the iPhone 17’s immediate successor, its only notable highlight may be that it’s equipped with Apple’s first 2nm chipset, the A20. However, CEO Tim Cook has warned that the company’s DRAM stockpile is running out, and chances are that it may be forced to raise the prices of its devices. With the iPhone 18 expected to be the casualty of this shortage, a price hike means it won’t offer the same compelling value as the iPhone 17, hinting at why Apple will keep the latter in its lineup for much longer.
The raging success of his particular device is also a major reason why the Cupertino firm has secured the majority of global smartphone profits in Q1 2026, whereas its Chinese rivals, such as Xiaomi, continue to struggle as they continue to circumvent the DRAM crisis. It remains to be seen if Apple maintains the iPhone 18 price at $799 next year, and if that is the case, the iPhone 17 could be offered at a price cut, further fueling its popularity.
News Source: MyDrivers
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech’s mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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