products fared well during the quarter. There
was a 54% increase in the sales of wearables
like AirPods and the Apple Watch, for instance
- meaning this part of Apple’s business is
now practically the same size as its Macintosh
business – while iPad sales also went up, by 17%.
Even more encouraging than all of this, though,
is the company’s projection of fiscal first-quarter
revenue exceeding analysts’ estimates – a sign
not only that the iPhone 11 has been well-
received, but also that the aforementioned
wearables and new services like Apple TV+
are proving to be hits. The company said in a
statement that fiscal first-quarter sales would
be between $85.5 billion and $89.5 billion.
It’s no wonder, then, that Cook said “we’re very
optimistic about what the holiday quarter has
in store”, adding: “You can tell from the guidance
we are bullish.”
A SEASON THAT PROMISES TO BE
SPECIAL FOR EVERY TECH ENTHUSIAST
Whether you are seeking out a great deal on an
iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods, HomePod
or any other in-demand Apple products this
Yuletide, there’s reason for hope.
And with Apple’s sales and revenue figures
continuing to hold up well even relative to its
own singular and staggering standards, it looks
like this is one Christmas time that will bring
festive cheer to both the people who make
Apple tech, and the ordinary consumers who
most appreciate it.
by Benjamin Kerry & Gavin Lenaghan