Everybody knew the iPhone 5 was going to sell well. Apple's new device had already forced the company to push back pre-orders, noting initial demand was well over two million units. Today, Apple announced iPhone 5 sales had actually broke the five million mark in a scant three days.
iPhone 4S pre-orders were about one million units, but the iPhone 5 nearly doubled the orders in just 24 hours after pre-orders were made available. Notably, the insane demand also means those of us without a pre-order have to wait about a month to get an iPhone 5. Accordingly, we're assuming much of the extra three million in sales is attributed to backlogged pre-orders.
“Demand for iPhone 5 has been incredible and we are working hard to get an iPhone 5 into the hands of every customer who wants one as quickly as possible,” said Tim Cook via press release. “While we have sold out of our initial supply, stores continue to receive iPhone 5 shipments regularly and customers can continue to order online and receive an estimated delivery date. We appreciate everyone’s patience and are working hard to build enough iPhone 5s for everyone.”
Hopefully, working hard to build enough iPhone 5 units doesn't require, you know, more forced internships of Chinese students.
Apple also noted today that 100 million iOS devices have updated to iOS 6. Not mentioned: when we can expect iOS 6 to fix a few problems, like weird Maps issues or the somewhat buggy Passbook. If the issues are driving you nuts, by the way, read our guide on how to revert back to iOS 5.
Undoubtedly, the absolutely massive iPhone 5 sales numbers will drive Apple back into the top of worldwide smartphone sales. Samsung's Galaxy S3 took the lead back in August, but -- well, five million iPhone 5s.
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b9bot1
September 24, 2012 at 10:12pm
Go figure, investors said Apple missed on sales. Even though Apple blew past over a million more than last years iPhone 4S.
I would like to know of any other company that has sold more in any shorter period of time?
How is that a disappointment?
How is 2 plus million pre-orders sold out in less than 24 hours a disappointment?
Really?
Investors are really out of touch with reality in so many ways but with Apple they always push it to another level that is impossible to reach.
Then they come out with there boneheaded announcements that this was a disappointment and start smashing Apple's stock.
Yet Google's keeps growing up to 748, WHY?
Has Android ever sold that many phones in a new product announcement in 3 days?
Why is Google being rewarded for nothing and Apple is being punished for NOTHING!!!!
Hifistereo
September 24, 2012 at 5:25pm
I really don't understand what all the hype is !!! I mean first of all, I AM a DIEHARD Apple geek. I've got all the good stuff minus the new phone. And Im usually quick on upgrading first on whatever new toys that come out of Cappurtino's factory. But C'mon this isn't really all that of a NEW PHONE!! You think it is really!!?? Im really disappointed. I don't think I'm alone on this. I was already upset once when they only upgraded to the "S" version last year, but to have to wait 12 more months for what, .3" of more screen realestate, a newer chip that makes it a little bit faster, and everything else I got on my 4S when updating to the new IOS. Is there anyone else in agreement that this "new phone" us anything but!!??
MattClark
September 24, 2012 at 6:58pm
A fair point, but: what WOULD you want? I ask that earnestly. I mean sure, I would like Apple to suddenly come on stage and present a new iPhone that folds my laundry, but that's not going to happen. Most tech is little steps, upgrades; the iPhone 5 is no different.
What kind of innovations would you like to see?
Hifistereo
September 27, 2012 at 6:51am
I see your point. But aren't most technological advances supposed to set standards and not follow them?
I guess I was just expecting a little bit more than what's been produced, I would've MOST DEFINITELY like to have seen a little bit more width physically along with the extra length. And maybe some newer features like what's on the iPad; a rotating home screen so the icons sit in landscape, etc. But mostly I would have preferred the screen to be at least 4.5". I guess this is what I'm most disappointed of. I still love my 4S and ill be satisfied untill Apple comes with something new again in 2013, or at least untill I can't hold out anymore on just settling for something new... We'll see.
ccobb
September 24, 2012 at 4:23pm
Has there ever been a better selling product in such a short period in history? I'm curious if there is.
