Roger Fingas
Some of Apple's problems with iPhone sales can be traced to more rapid leaks posted on news sites, CEO Tim Cook claimed during a quarterly results call on Tuesday.
"Earlier and much more frequent reports about future iPhones" are having an impact, Cook said in response to an analyst question. The executive didn't go into further detail.
Product rumors have been a factor in Apple sales for years, particularly with devices updated in annual cycles like the iPhone and iPad. People shopping for a smartphone in July, for instance, might consider holding off if a significant iPhone update is predicted for September. Hints of a modest update can prompt people to wait even longer, or simply buy an Android phone.
The issue may be exacerbated this year because of the alleged scale of Apple's plans. The "iPhone 8" is expected to be a major redesign, with a 5.8-inch OLED screen, a virtual home button, wireless charging, and 3D facial recognition and/or iris scanning.
Associated rumors go back as far as 2015 and have only intensified in recent months as the company approaches a crucial summer deadline for mass production. Supposed schematics and manufacturing molds may even be offering a glimpse at the product's final design, such as its vertically-aligned dual-lens camera.
In March-quarter results announced on Tuesday, iPhone sales fell year-over-year from 51.2 million to 50.8 million. It could be that the public sees the iPhone 7 as an "evolutionary" update like the iPhone 6s, making the "8" more attractive.
Amber Neely
Andrew Orr
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
Chip Loder
48 Comments
But Sog told us that Apple is the one that is responsible for all the leaks. So is Sog or Cook lying?
It's been common practice now for people to hold off buying any new iPhones if a new iPhone with new design is coming soon. That news media have been busy bombarding us with "unconfirmed" leaks certainly help the hold off. The problem is people who need to replace their phone now but don't will create:
1. sales delay when everyone buying at the same time
2. less sales of the current iPhone
3. going for alternative (Samsung) when they can't get the new iPhone or when they read "negative" reviews from bias critics.
My wife needs a new iPhone7 - but wants the dual camera SLR effects in the smaller iPhone. Since all the rumors are showing a two camera layout for the next one, she's waiting...
Come'on Tim
Anyone that owns or has owned and iPhone knows new phones are coming in the fall. Sales are always going to drop but in
particular when we know a new form factor is coming. I almost upgraded my 6s to a 7 and then said "I may as well wait for the 8"