Apple unveiled a lower-cost iPhone 17e priced at $599 featuring 256GB base storage, a 48MP Fusion camera, 2x telephoto, MagSafe and Qi2 charging, A19 processor and faster C1X modem. The company also released 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models at $599 and $799 with M4 chips boasting up to 30% faster CPU and GPU performance and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, with pre-orders beginning March 4 and deliveries on March 11.

Evercore ISI maintained an Outperform rating, citing Apple's strategic enhancements in device storage and AI capabilities as key drivers for future growth. The firm highlighted that the increased base storage on the iPhone 17e at the same price point functions as a de facto price reduction and positions Apple to support advanced Siri and AI features later this year.

Anthropic's Claude app surged to the top of Apple's App Store charts following a U.S. government ban, signaling strong consumer demand for AI-driven applications. Higher engagement in the App Store could bolster Apple's services revenue as it advances its AI integration across devices.