The release of Apple’s iPhone 17 series on September 19, 2025, has sparked significant excitement worldwide, with eager customers forming long lines at Apple Stores across major cities. This fervor underscores the brand’s enduring appeal and the anticipation surrounding its latest technological advancements.
China’s Enthusiastic Reception
In Beijing, approximately 300 individuals gathered at the Sanlitun Apple Store to collect their pre-ordered iPhone 17 devices. Among them was 35-year-old Shuke Wang, who opted for the Pro Max model, priced from 9,999 yuan ($1,406). Wang expressed his appreciation for the series’ redesign and the Pro Max’s extended battery life. The iPhone 17 introduces enhancements such as a brighter, more scratch-resistant screen and an improved front-facing camera, aiming to bolster Apple’s position in the competitive Chinese market. Analysts predict that the iPhone 17 could boost Apple’s China shipments by 11% in the latter half of 2025, contributing to an overall 5% growth for the year. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/apples-iphone-17-launch-draws-hundreds-long-queue-its-beijing-store-2025-09-19/?utm_source=openai))
Shanghai’s Nanjing East Road Apple Store also witnessed substantial crowds. By 8 a.m., over a hundred customers were in line to retrieve their pre-ordered devices. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models emerged as favorites, with many customers selecting the new orange finish alongside the classic silver. The strong demand was evident not only in customer preferences but also in the bustling resale market outside the store, where scalpers offered premiums of 500 to 600 yuan ($70.3-$84.3) for the 256GB iPhone 17 Pro Max. ([global.chinadaily.com.cn](https://global.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202509/19/WS68cd0333a3108622abca1c45.html?utm_source=openai))
India’s Enthusiastic Turnout
In India, the iPhone 17 launch drew massive crowds at Apple Stores in Mumbai and Delhi. In Mumbai, the queue outside the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) Apple Store stretched around the building long before dawn. By sunrise, hundreds were already in line, equipped with umbrellas, coffee cups, and portable chargers. The rush briefly turned tense when a scuffle broke out among the crowd, prompting security personnel to intervene swiftly. ([indianexpress.com](https://indianexpress.com/article/trending/trending-in-india/apple-iphone-17-launch-india-mumbai-delhi-crowds-scuffle-viral-video/?utm_source=openai))
Similarly, in Delhi’s Saket Apple Store, customers camped outside overnight to be among the first to purchase the new device. One buyer expressed excitement about the new orange iPhone 17 Pro Max, highlighting the camera and battery upgrades. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/apple-iphone-17-series-hits-stores-in-india-massive-crowds-at-mumbai-bkc-and-delhi-saket/amp_articleshow/123991425.cms?utm_source=openai))
Global Demand and Popularity
The iPhone 17 series has garnered significant interest globally. A recent poll by Tom’s Guide revealed that the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the most popular model among readers, with 39% expressing interest. The Pro lineup, including the Pro and Pro Max models, accounted for 61% of the audience’s preference. The newly introduced iPhone Air garnered 11% interest, equal to the base iPhone 17. Additionally, 17% of readers indicated no plans to purchase an iPhone 17. ([tomsguide.com](https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/iphones/one-iphone-model-is-most-popular-with-toms-guide-readers-and-its-not-even-close?utm_source=openai))
iPhone 17 Series Overview
The iPhone 17 series comprises four models: the base iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the new ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air. The base model starts at $799 and offers significant upgrades, including a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion and Always-On functionality, features previously reserved for Pro models. Powered by the new A19 chip, it delivers fast and responsive performance. Camera enhancements include dual 48MP rear cameras and an 18MP front-facing Center Stage camera, improving detail and color accuracy. Battery life is reliable, with enhanced 40W fast charging. ([techradar.com](https://www.techradar.com/phones/iphone/apple-iphone-17-review?utm_source=openai))
The iPhone 17 Air, unveiled on September 9, 2025, and launching on September 19, is Apple’s thinnest iPhone to date, measuring just 5.64mm and weighing 165g. It features a 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 120Hz ProMotion and is powered by the A19 Pro chip running iOS 26. The device includes a single 48MP rear camera and an 18MP Center Stage-enabled selfie camera. Battery life lasts 6–10 hours based on usage, with optional MagSafe battery support. Pricing starts at $999 for 256GB. ([techradar.com](https://www.techradar.com/phones/iphone/apple-iphone-air-review?utm_source=openai))
Market Impact and Future Outlook
The strong initial sales of the iPhone 17 series are expected to provide a crucial end-of-year boost to Apple’s market share and shipments, particularly in China, where the company faces intense competition from local brands like Xiaomi and Huawei. Analysts predict that the iPhone 17 could boost Apple’s China shipments by 11% in the second half of 2025, contributing to an overall 5% growth for the year. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/apples-iphone-17-launch-draws-hundreds-long-queue-its-beijing-store-2025-09-19/?utm_source=openai))
The introduction of the iPhone 17 Air model, while not expected to sell strongly due to hardware trade-offs, is being positioned as a testbed for future lightweight and possibly foldable iPhone technology. However, eSIM support is pending regulatory approval. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/apples-iphone-17-launch-draws-hundreds-long-queue-its-beijing-store-2025-09-19/?utm_source=openai))
In India, the iPhone 17 launch has attracted large crowds, with customers queuing for hours to buy the new model. The standout Cosmic Orange edition has gained attention, while prices range from ₹82,900 to ₹1,59,900. Long lines continue at Apple stores nationwide. ([livemint.com](https://www.livemint.com/news/trends/iphone-17-sale-mumbai-man-stands-in-queue-from-3-am-to-become-one-of-the-first-buyers-in-india-11758271889990.html?utm_source=openai))
The iPhone 17 series’ launch has not only demonstrated Apple’s ability to generate excitement and demand for its products but also highlighted the brand’s global reach and the loyalty of its customer base. As the devices become more widely available, it will be interesting to observe how they perform in various markets and how competitors respond to Apple’s latest offerings.
