Apple aims to keep iPhone shipments steady despite 2023 turmoil

The company’s forecast of 85 million this year is slightly lower than the initial shipment target of 90 million Apple offered in the previous two years. — Photo by TANG CHHIN Sothy/AFP

Apple Inc. is asking suppliers to produce about 85 million units of the iPhone 15 this year, roughly in line with the year before, according to people familiar with the matter.

The company is aiming to hold shipments steady despite tumult in the global economy and a projected decline in the overall smartphone market. It’s likely to increase revenue overall because Apple is considering raising the price for Pro models, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the targets aren’t public.