Apple’s AI Release Is Too Slow to Encourage the

iPhone “Super Cycle”

 

 

Apple’s delayed AI rollout means no iPhone 16 super cycle. Learn why analysts are now eyeing 2025’s iPhone 17 for major upgrades.

 

 

 

Apple’s Delayed AI Vision

Apple’s ambitious push into artificial intelligence has hit a speed bump. Despite the excitement around the iPhone 16, the tech giant has confirmed that many Apple Intelligence features will not be ready at launch. This delay is casting doubt on the possibility of a highly anticipated iPhone “super cycle”, a period of massive upgrade-driven demand.

While some industry analysts remain optimistic, reality suggests otherwise. Consumers have been holding off on buying new iPhones for years, and while AI may be intriguing, it might not be enough to spark a buying frenzy, at least not this year.

Why the Super Cycle Might Not Happen This Year

It’s easy to get caught up in the hype surrounding Apple Intelligence. However, the facts don’t support the notion of an iPhone 16 super cycle. Macroeconomic uncertainty and stagnant smartphone demand, especially in China, are huge hurdles. People around the world are spending cautiously, and an incremental iPhone update may not be enough to change that.

To make matters worse, the iPhone 16 will look nearly identical to last year’s model. Minor camera tweaks won’t push hesitant buyers to upgrade. The absence of a fresh design is a critical blow. Design refreshes typically drive large-scale upgrades, and that just isn’t happening in 2024.

What to Expect from Apple Intelligence (Eventually)

The highlight of Monday’s event will be Apple Intelligence, but many features won’t be available right away. According to Apple’s current roadmap, only a few enhancements will roll out with iOS 18.1 in October.

Coming Features (But Not Yet)

• Writing tools and content summarisation

• Object/person removal in photos

• Phone call transcription

• Smart email sorting in Apple Mail

Unfortunately, ChatGPT integration, a much-hyped feature, will not be included until much later in the year. Additionally, the core AI tools will be unavailable in key markets such as the European Union and China at launch. This means Apple is missing out on massive segments of potential users right from the start.

AI Delays Across the Board

It’s not just about iOS 18.1. Apple has also pushed Genmoji, its AI emoji generator, to iOS 18.2 (expected in December). The new Image Playground app, which uses AI to generate images from textwill also miss the initial launch.

The fragmented rollout raises serious concerns about Apple’s strategy. Instead of delivering a unified, compelling AI package, Apple seems to be drip-feeding features over months. This piecemeal approach could severely limit the excitement and urgency around upgrading to the iPhone 16.

Apple’s Short-Term Fixes: Hardware Tweaks

Because AI won’t deliver immediate value, Apple is expected to emphasise small hardware changes during its launch event. These include:

• An Action Button on lower-tier iPhones

• A new photo capture button

While useful, these minor additions are unlikely to drive a super cycle. They serve more as stopgaps than selling points.

Looking Ahead: iPhone 17 in 2025

Apple’s best bet may be to focus on the iPhone 17 in 2025. By then, the Apple Intelligence suite should be more stable and globally available. More importantly, Apple is planning a full design overhaul, something that historically drives large upgrade waves.

If you’re waiting for a reason to upgrade, 2025 may be your year.

Monday’s Launch Event: What’s on the Agenda?

Apple will hold a rare Monday product launch this year. Expect announcements focused on:

• Apple Intelligence demos

• iPhone 16 upgrades

• Apple Watch health features

• Entry-level AirPods refresh

A second event in October is likely to feature the M4 Mac mini, new MacBook Pro, iMacs, and updated iPads.

Sonos: A Cautionary Tale of Software Gone Wrong

In related tech news, Sonos is grappling with a disastrous app update that has delayed product launches and forced internal restructuring.

What Happened?

• Its TV set-top box, codenamed Pinewood, has been pushed to March 2026.

• Ace headphones production has been slashed from 1 million to just 90,000 units a year.

• The company’s stock is down 32% in 2025.

Sonos shows what happens when software falters. Apple, while more stable, should be wary of similar missteps with its AI strategy.

Apple vs. the EU: Legal Woes Ahead

As if delays weren’t enough, Apple is facing potential multi-billion-dollar fines from the European Commission. The issue? Alleged tax evasion between 2004 and 2014 was worth nearly $14 billion.

The final verdict is set for Tuesday, September 10, the day after the iPhone 16 launch. Apple likely chose to avoid launching the iPhone on the same day to escape potential media chaos.

Conclusion: Don’t Expect a Super Cycle Yet

Apple has plenty of innovations coming, but not all at once. The iPhone 16 may see moderate interest, but a super cycle isn’t on the horizon yet.

With global delays, a staggered AI rollout, and legal distractions, this launch feels like a placeholder. But with iPhone 17, the story could change. That’s when Apple Intelligence, global reach, and a fresh design may finally align to create the cycle everyone’s been waiting for.

Apple’s delayed AI rollout means no iPhone 16 super cycle. Learn why analysts are now eyeing 2025’s iPhone 17 for major upgrades.

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