Apple iPhone 16 lineup hits stores without its AI features

Apple's (AAPL) iPhone 16 lineup is finally available in stores today as consumers continue to wait for its highly anticipated AI features. Asking for a Trend Host Josh Lipton joins Catalysts from the Fifth Avenue Apple Store to discuss the rollout of Apple Intelligence next month and whether it will spark a meaningful upgrade cycle.

For more expert insight and the latest market action, click here to watch this full episode of Catalysts.

This post was written by Melanie Riehl

Video transcript

The iPhone 16 lineup available in stores today, but without its highly awaited A. I features with more on today's release and the ongoing hype around Apple intelligence.

Let's go to Josh, and he's live outside of the Apple store here in New York City.

Josh.

It's that time of year Apple fans wait for when those new iPhones do officially hit store shelves like the Apple store right behind me here in New York City.

Fans lining up to get their hands on that new iPhone 16 series, which remember comes in four styles.

IPhone 16, iPhone 16 plus and the premium models the iPhone 16 pro and the iPhone six.

Pro Max.

Starting prices range from 799 to 1199.

These iPhones are Apple's first design, with its so called Apple Intelligence platform, which includes new A I powered features that summarise messages, tools to help proofread and improve writing and an upgraded Siri Digital assistant.

Now one issue for investors to consider.

Though Apple intelligence is not launching alongside these iPhones, the A I enabled capabilities are going to be gradually rolled out first as a free update in the US next month and then more regions over time.

The big question for investors, though, right now is is whether this new A I enabled iPhone 16 is going to jump start a meaningful iPhone upgrade cycle.

Some analysts tell Yahoo Finance they are cautious.

The good news for consumers is the devices hold their value last a long time.

I think they'll again be an A I upgrade cycle.

It's just gonna take time.

And it isn't helping the company that there's this gap between the hardware and the software Now, On the other hand, I spoke with Gene Munster of Deepwater Asset Management.

He is more bullish, estimating that iPhone growth will be stronger than what Wall Street estimates in 2025 and 2026.

Munster estimates that there are roughly 700 million active iPhones out there.

They are at least three years old.

That is a lot of older devices and many of those fans.

So monster bets will be.

Look at that new iPhone 16.

I think it's exciting and compelling enough to warrant an upgrade.

Guys back to you, Josh, an amazing live hit from the field, really appreciate you joining us.

Thanks so much