14 DAY TRIAL // Apple’s 2018 iPhone lineup could eventually generate a super-cycle, according to a recent survey from Bank of America Merrill Lynch, as a significant number of existing customers may finally upgrade to iPhone XS or iPhone XR.
With nearly 91,000 respondents, the survey was supposed to determine how many of the existing smartphone users plan to upgrade to new-generation models, and if they do, what platform they would pick.
By the looks of it, Apple is likely to be the big winner of these anticipated upgrades, as no less than 33 percent of the customers who participated in the study said they want to get a 2018 iPhone. Only 15 percent of the respondents said they are considering getting a new Samsung phone.
iPhone XR driving sales
Unsurprisingly, Apple continues to have one of the most loyal customer bases on the market, as no less than 70 percent of those who have an iPhone plan to stick with Apple, as per CNBC.
“Our survey suggests interest in upgrading to an iPhone rose significantly in recent months, with steady growth following the announcements of the iPhone Xs and iPhone Xr. [The] survey shows demand for iPhones rising across markets,” analyst Wamsi Mohan was quoted as saying.
“iPhone users stickiness is better than the competition. Our survey points to a significant opportunity for growth in both China and India.”
While sales figures of iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max aren’t available, Apple itself expects the upcoming iPhone XR to account for more than half of all 2018 iPhone sales. iPhone XR will launch later this month with a $749 starting price in the United States.
However, the device will only feature an LCD screen instead of OLED (as on iPhone XS), a single camera on the back, and come without 3D Touch. Pre-orders will start on October 19, while shipping will kick off a week later on October 26.