Okay, here’s the thing: we all know the iPhone is super popular, but the reasons why people are actually buying the latest model might surprise you. A JPMorgan survey reveals that most people are buying the iPhone for reasons like speed (15%) and 5G capabilities (13%), but only 10% are excited about its AI features. That’s pretty shocking considering how much hype there is around AI transforming everything from business operations to customer interactions.
But here’s where it gets even more interesting. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has been the top-selling smartphone in Q1 2024, and Apple’s Pro models now make up over 60% of their sales.
This tells us that people are willing to spend more for the premium features like improved cameras, faster chips, and longer battery life—stuff that’s super useful for business owners who need reliable, fast tech on the go.
What Does This Mean for SMB Owners?
For small to medium business (SMB) owners, the fact that only 10% of people care about AI features could be a wake-up call. While the average consumer might be overlooking AI, you shouldn’t. AI is a tool that can automate tasks, analyze customer data, and help with everything from marketing to customer service. Even though it’s not a major selling point for iPhones, AI can be a game-changer for your business, and ignoring it could leave you behind.
iPhone vs. Competitors: Where Do Other Phones Stand?
The iPhone’s lack of emphasis on AI might actually be where its competitors are excelling. Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra are pushing their AI capabilities hard, offering features like Google Assistant and Samsung DeX, which allow for more seamless business integration. With the Pixel 9, you can easily automate emails, schedule meetings, and analyze data with AI. And Samsung’s DeX feature can turn your phone into a full desktop experience, which is huge for business owners who need to be mobile but still want a computer-like experience.
The Numbers: Why iPhone Still Reigns Supreme
Despite the relatively low interest in AI features, the iPhone is still dominating sales. In fact, Apple sold over 95.3 million iPhones in the first half of 2024 alone. The iPhone 15 Pro Max took the top spot as the best-selling smartphone in Q1 2024, showing that the demand for premium features like better cameras, faster processors, and 5G capabilities remains strong. SMB owners should take note: if your business relies on heavy use of these features—whether for high-quality video calls, social media content creation, or multitasking—the iPhone might still be your go-to.
Takeaway for Business Owners
While consumers might not be prioritizing AI when buying a phone, you should be. AI can help you save time, boost productivity, and streamline your operations, making it a powerful tool for SMBs. And if you’re already invested in Apple’s ecosystem, the iPhone is still a solid choice for business due to its security and seamless integration with other Apple products.
That said, don’t sleep on Google and Samsung. Their focus on AI and business features might make them a better fit for SMBs looking to leverage AI-powered tools in their day-to-day operations.
So, if you’re thinking about upgrading your business tech in 2024, keep an eye on these trends and consider what features will really move the needle for your company.
