iPhone 17 Launch Propels Apple’s Stock to Annual High Despite Mixed Reviews

Apple’s stock has made a comeback for the year following the launch of its iPhone 17 lineup, which includes the new ultra-thin iPhone Air model. This marks the last major tech company to wipe out its 2025 losses.

The new iPhone 17 boasts of a larger 6.3-inch display with 120Hz ProMotion technology, an upgraded A19 chip, and an improved 48MP camera system. The starting price is set at $799.

The standout iPhone Air, at a mere 5.6mm thickness, is Apple’s thinnest phone ever. It replaces the less popular iPhone Plus model and is priced at $999. However, early reports indicate quality control issues, with some display models at Apple Stores already showing scratches and scuffs, particularly on darker finishes.

Bank of America analysts note extended ship times of 18 days for the iPhone 17 compared to 10 days for last year’s iPhone 16, suggesting strong initial demand. The company is seeing particularly robust pre-order activity in China, a crucial market for Apple’s growth.

Despite the product launch momentum, Apple remains the laggard among big tech stocks in 2025. This is partly due to lower AI infrastructure spending compared to rivals like Microsoft, Google, and Meta.

Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/09/22/apples-stock-turns-positive-for-year-after-iphone-17-launch-.html