The iPhone 16 Pro, Apple’s latest flagship device, has generated significant buzz since its release. But is it meeting sales expectations? Market data reveals a mixed performance—while the standard iPhone 16 dominates global sales, the Pro models face challenges due to competition, delayed AI features, and regional market dynamics.
Is the iPhone 16 Pro Selling Well? A Comprehensive Sales Analysis (2025 Update)
In this in-depth analysis, we examine:
✔ Global sales performance of the iPhone 16 Pro vs. competitors
✔ Key factors affecting demand (Apple Intelligence delay, Huawei competition)
✔ Regional trends (China, US, Japan, and MEA markets)
✔ Consumer sentiment from reviews and pre-order data
✔ Future outlook—will holiday promotions and AI updates boost sales?
1. Global Sales Performance: iPhone 16 Pro vs. Other Models
According to Counterpoint Research, the iPhone 16 base model was the best-selling smartphone globally in Q1 2025, followed by the iPhone 16 Pro Max (2nd) and iPhone 16 Pro (3rd) . However, pre-order demand for the Pro models declined compared to last year:
- iPhone 16 Pro Max sales down 16% YoY
- iPhone 16 Pro sales down 27% YoY
Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 Plus saw a 48% surge in pre-orders, suggesting consumers are opting for larger screens at a lower price .
Why Are Pro Models Underperforming?
- Delayed Apple Intelligence: The AI features, marketed as a key selling point, were not available at launch .
- High competition from Huawei: In China, Huawei’s premium phones outsell the iPhone 16 Pro due to aggressive pricing and subsidies .
- Technical issues: Some users report camera glitches and underwhelming battery life, impacting reviews .
The iPhone 16 Pro features a longer battery life than last year’s model. If you’re still unsure whether to upgrade, our iPhone 16 Pro Review: Pros & Cons – Is It Worth Buying 2025? covers everything you need to know.
2. Regional Breakdown: Where Is the iPhone 16 Pro Struggling?
🇨🇳 China: Subsidies Favor Cheaper Phones
- The Chinese government subsidizes sub-$833 phones, making the iPhone 16 Pro less appealing .
- Huawei leads in premium sales, with Apple relying on promotions to stay competitive .
🇺🇸 US: Premium Buyers Still Choose Pro Max
- The iPhone 16 Pro Max remains popular among high-end buyers, driven by AI features and camera upgrades .
- However, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra is gaining traction with better AI photo editing .
🇯🇵 Japan & MEA: Strong Growth for Base iPhone 16
- The standard iPhone 16 leads sales due to carrier subsidies and Apple’s ecosystem appeal .
3. Will the iPhone 16 Pro Recover? Future Outlook
Apple has two major opportunities to boost Pro sales:
- Apple Intelligence Rollout (Q4 2025): If AI features impress users, demand may rebound .
- Holiday Season Promotions: Year-end discounts in the US and Double 11 in China could drive sales .
However, if these efforts fail, Apple may need more aggressive pricing strategies in 2026 .
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the iPhone 16 Pro?
✅ Buy if:
- You want the best iPhone camera (tetraprism lens, 48MP sensor).
- You’re willing to wait for Apple Intelligence updates.
- You prefer premium build (titanium frame, ProMotion display).
❌ Avoid if:
- You’re on a budget (the iPhone 16 or 16e offers better value).
- You need immediate AI features (some won’t arrive until late 2025).
Conclusion: The iPhone 16 Pro Is Selling, But Not as Expected
While the iPhone 16 Pro remains a strong device, its sales lag behind the standard model due to high pricing, competition, and delayed software features. However, upcoming AI enhancements and promotions could revive its momentum.
For the latest updates on iPhone sales trends, bookmark this page—we’ll keep you informed with real-time data!