iPhone 18 Pro Sales Rise 29% in China, Fall in U.S. and Japan [Report]

iPhone 18 Pro-series sales rose 29% in China during the first three weeks of availability, helping offset declines in the U.S. and Japan, according to Counterpoint Research.

Combined global sales of the Pro and Pro Max increased 3.1% compared with the iPhone 17 Pro series over the equivalent launch period. The figures track sales to consumers, rather than shipments to retailers.

China's stronger start benefited from improved early supply and higher prices for competing Android flagships. U.S. sales fell 4%, with Counterpoint pointing to price increases and consumers' perception of limited upgrades. Japan recorded a steeper 27% decline as exchange rates compounded higher prices. Other markets grew 3%.

An earlier launch-week report put Pro-series sales in China up 12%, but included only the first three days of availability. The new figures cover a longer window following the September 18 launch, so the percentages are not directly comparable.

The Pro Max accounted for 56% of Pro-series sales globally, down from 57% a year earlier. Growth in India and Southeast Asia leaned toward the smaller Pro as higher prices weighed on buyers.

The research firm cautioned that China's growth could reflect front-loaded demand. Another question is whether the iPhone Duo attracts additional buyers or draws sales away from the Pro Max. The foldable's October 23 release falls outside this report's tracking period.