Apple (AAPL) surprised investors and consumers in 2025 with a rapid release of products it would normally spread out. Over the last few weeks, the tech company has released a new iPhone model, iPad and iPad Air devices, an updated iPad keyboard, and the new MacBook Air and Mac Studio.
It’s unclear why Apple is on the offensive at the start of 2025 but it could be part of a shifting strategy at the tech giant. While Apple has relied on iPhone sales to boost revenue, that segment has slowed as inflation weighs on luxury purchases. At the same time, the tech leader’s computer business has performed well, which could explain the multiple updates so far this year. Apple may want to take advantage of the interest in its Mac devices, striking while the iron is hot with new models.
Adding to that is the possibility of the tech company abandoning its previous release schedule. This could see it launch products when they are ready, rather than holding off until certain periods. Doing so could change when it sees revenue boosts throughout the year. It also might allow the company to capture additional sales from customers seeking upgrades sooner rather than later.
What This Means for AAPL Stock
It’s difficult to tell how investors feel about Apple’s changed release schedule as other major factors have affected the stock this year. That includes disruptions in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector, trade war worries, and more. Investors will get a clearer picture of the effects of this change on the company’s business when it releases its upcoming earnings report next month.
What traders do know is that AAPL stock hasn’t performed well despite the product releases with an 8.38% year-to-date drop. Adding to that is another 4.29% drop on Monday morning.
Is AAPL Stock a Buy, Sell, or Hold?
Turning to Wall Street, the analysts’ consensus rating for Apple is Moderate Buy based on 18 Buy, 11 Hold, and four Sell ratings over the last three months. With that comes an average price target of $250.95, a high of $325, and a low of $188. This represents a potential 9.61% upside for AAPL stock.
