Apple’s iPhone 17 is expected to outperform previous 5G models in Taiwan, signaling strong growth in the local smartphone market. Analysts predict the iPhone 17 could spark significant replacement demand, boosting Apple’s presence nationwide.
The iPhone 17 series launched globally, continuing Apple’s 5G lineup that began with the iPhone 12. Taiwan’s leading telecom operators expressed confidence that this model will become the top-selling 5G iPhone yet. The key phrase iPhone 17 appears throughout their forecasts as a major growth driver.
Apple currently holds roughly one-third of Taiwan’s smartphone market. Experts estimate the iPhone 17 could generate up to 1.6 million replacement sales across the island. These projections suggest a notable increase compared with previous 5G releases.
Chunghwa Telecom Chair Chien Chih-cheng highlighted the iPhone 17’s appeal for users with older devices. He predicted the series “will outsell the iPhone 16” due to its upgraded performance and competitive pricing.
Chien pointed to the new A19 chip built on TSMC’s 3 nm process, advanced artificial intelligence computing, improved cooling systems, and longer battery life. He also noted upcoming features, such as the traditional Mandarin Apple Intelligence version and expanded storage options.
Taiwan Mobile Chief Consumer Business Officer Lin Tung-min forecast a larger replacement wave than last year. He expects annual sales to exceed previous levels, supported by the iPhone 17’s strong supply.
Lin added that Taiwan enjoys the most ample initial stock in Apple’s history, projecting early growth of 20–30% over last year. Far Eastone Telecommunications President Ching Chee cautioned that some models may briefly face shortages due to color, storage, or specification choices.
However, he expects supply and demand to stabilize quickly. Far Eastone Senior Executive Vice President Zhao Yi-nan explained that users typically upgrade devices every 2.4–2.5 years. This pattern fuels replacement demand among iPhone 14 and older users.
Industry observers note that the iPhone 17 launch could influence Taiwan’s broader smartphone market. With strong consumer incentives, advanced hardware upgrades, and ample availability, Apple may solidify its market share. Analysts also expect the release to impact accessory sales and service subscriptions.
Overall, the iPhone 17 promises significant momentum for Apple in Taiwan. Both telecom leaders and market analysts anticipate strong consumer response, positioning the new series as a potential record-setter in sales.
