News Technology

Tim Cook Says Apple Has Sold One Billionth iPhone

Apple has announced that the billionth iPhone manufactured by the company has been sold.

The announcement was made by company’s chief executive Tim Cook at a staff meeting at the company’s California headquarters.

“IPhone has become one of the most important, world-changing and successful products in history,” Tim Cook said in a statement.

“It’s become more than a constant companion. IPhone is truly an essential part of our daily life and enables much of what we do throughout the day. Last week we passed another major milestone when we sold the billionth iPhone. We never set out to make the most, but we’ve always set out to make the best products that make a difference.”

Year 2016 hasn’t been an encouraging year in the history of Cupertino-based company. On Tuesday, Apple had reported a fall in iPhone sales over the past quarter, a second straight slump for the device which had earlier seen uninterrupted growth since its launch in 2007. There are numerous challenges ahead for Apple, which has built a huge business around the iPhone but is unlikely to continue with that growth. The company is getting tough competition not only from its long-time rival Samsung but also from some other brands like Huawei and Xiaomi. Despite that declining sales could not stop the company from reaching the milestone of selling its billionth iPhone.

Apple’s iPhone SE could not perform well in terms of sales, and according to experts, its pricing was the main reason behind its failure. In India, the phone is priced at Rs 39,900, which can’t be said as cheap according to Indian standards. Moreover, the phone offered a little in the name of upgrade.

Apple is expected to unveil its iPhone 7 in September this year, and according to most reports, the phone will be launched with only incremental changes. The company is also trying to expand its product line and move into services for a more steady revenue base. It’ll however continue to keep users in its ecosystem with offerings such as music, Apple Watch, and connected cars.