Apple is poised for an exceptionally strong quarter. The iPhone 17 series is selling better than expected – especially in the US and China. Analysts at investment firm Wedbush expect demand to push the company's fourth quarter of 2025 significantly above original forecasts. The stock has already responded to the positive signals, reaching a new all-time high.
The iPhone 17 series is emerging as a driver for Apple's 2025 fiscal year. The iPhone Air, in particular, is showing surprisingly high sales figures in China. Wedbush sees this as a key reason to raise the price target for Apple shares to $310. The combination of strong iPhone demand and future AI initiatives should give Apple additional momentum in the coming years.
iPhone 17 delivers strong quarterly figures
Official Q4 figures are expected on October 30. Wedbush predicts that Apple will exceed market expectations. Demand in the US and China, in particular, is stronger than generally expected. In China, where Apple is facing increasing competition, the iPhone Air is particularly notable. According to Wedbush, this model is selling better than many other market analysts had previously expected.
This contrasts with the assessments of other analysts, who had predicted a weaker performance for the iPhone Air. However, current sales figures tell a different story and support these more optimistic expectations.
Shares at record levels – 4 trillion mark in sight
Even before the release of its Q4 results, Apple shares reached a new all-time high of $262.42 on October 20, 2025. This represents a significant reversal in a year marked at times by trade and tariff issues. The successful management under Tim Cook contributed significantly to the stabilization.
On the morning of October 21, the stock was trading slightly lower at around $261.50 in premarket trading. However, if the price exceeds $268.26, Apple would be valued at $4 trillion for the first time—a historic moment in the financial markets.
Artificial intelligence as the next growth driver
Another factor that will play a major role for Apple is its planned expansion in the field of artificial intelligence. Despite its current success, the product portfolio still lacks a comprehensive AI strategy. Wedbush believes this is precisely where great potential lies in the future. If Apple successfully implements its AI plans, its share price could rise by another $75 to $100 in the coming years.
Apple has already entered into a partnership with OpenAI. At the same time, Google Gemini is expected to be integrated into the Apple ecosystem as another AI tool. The search engine partnership between Apple and Google will remain in place, which is also seen as a positive sign. Wedbush sees this as a solid foundation for the expansion of joint AI projects.
The timing for new partnerships is favorable, according to the investment firm. The user base is strong, interest in AI applications is growing, and Apple is positioned to benefit from this in the long term.
Price development is based on more than just the iPhone 17
The iPhone 17 demonstrates that Apple remains capable of driving market momentum—even in an increasingly saturated smartphone market. The short-term success of the current device generation coincides with long-term strategic developments in the field of AI. Together, these two provide a solid foundation for further growth.
The coming week should reveal whether Apple's Q4 results actually exceed expectations. If Wedbush's forecast proves correct, not only will the share price remain high, but confidence in the company's future strategy will also be boosted. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Ringo Chiu)
Disclaimer: No recommendation for investments
This article does not constitute financial or investment advice. The information contained herein is for journalistic and informational purposes only. Please conduct your own research or consult a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
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