iPhone 15 Google searches exploded in the run-up to the release of Apple Inc's (NASDAQ:AAPL) latest mobile, with searches using the phrase ‘buy iPhone 15’ jumping by close to 500% since the tech firm’s live launch event earlier this month.
Phrases ‘Pre-order iPhone 15’ and ‘Apple’ were also Googled more than 380% and 115% times respectively since the launch, research from InvestinGoal revealed.
Apple doesn’t earn money for Google searches, its £1,199 mobiles do and with the new iPhone models launching globally today, shareholders will be happy to know that tech fans in Europe, China, and India are lining up outside stores in their droves.
One of the first people to get into Apple Store, BKC in Mumbai to pickup & experience the iPhone 15 Series.
Look at the crazy line outside the store! First time in India at a physical Apple Store that opened in April. #iPhone15 #iPhone15ProMax pic.twitter.com/IzBkB8NIDS
— Ishan Agarwal (@ishanagarwal24) September 22, 2023
iPhone 15 pre-orders were reportedly much stronger than analysts had initially predicted and are roughly up 10%-12% when compared to sales figures from iPhone 14, US investment firm Wedbush reckons.
According to preliminary research, it’s the iPhone 15 Pro Max – the most expensive model – which is garnering attention, with the mix “heavily skewed towards iPhone 15 Pro/Max,” despite shipments of these models being delayed until October.
Wedbush said: “The big focus of consumers at the Midtown Apple Store today has been Pro Max so far as we believe a scarcity of iPhone 15 Pro Max is starting to build throughout the supply chain.”
Analysts predict 250 million iPhones haven’t been upgraded in four years and therefore predict this launch, which brings an improved camera, performance, and universal charging ports, will be “catalysing consumers to upgrade.”
Since announcing the new iPhones, shares in Apple have slipped slightly by a little over 1% to around US$174, but Wedbush remains confident about the tech giant’s prospects, targeting a US$240 share price and rating the stock ‘outperform’.