Apple iPhone Late 2011 Sales Are Exploding: 10 Reasons Why

Apple's iPhone is a hot item this holiday shopping season. The iPhone 4S is the top smartphone in several countries around the world, including the United States and United Kingdom. And most analysts believe Apple will be able to keep that up for the rest of the year. Even better, research firms say that while 2011 is the best year yet for iPhone, sales will likely be trumped in 2012.

Of course, Apple's ability to sell millions of iPhones is nothing new. For years, the company has been attracting customers to its devices, and even though the latest releases start at $200, consumers seem more than willing to spend that cash to have what many believe is the best smartphone on the planet.

This time around, though, there are a host of reasons why the iPhone has proved so popular and its sales are exploding. From more options to the simple fact that the iPhone is an Apple product, there's no wonder Apple's smartphone sales are on the rise. Here's why iPhone sales are exploding right now:

1. First and foremost: It's the iPhone

If there's one reason why iPhone sales are exploding, it's the simple fact that it is the most desired handset in the world. From China to the U.S. to the U.K., consumers and enterprise users want to get their hands on the one and only Apple iPhone.

2. Apple's branding is impeccable

Apple has done a fantastic job over the years building its brand. Consumers trust that Apple products will come with worthwhile features, and they believe that the company's smartphones will hold up over time. That means something in the consumer space, and the growing sales seem to prove that.

3. More carrier options

In previous years, Apple sales were strong in the U.S., but they weren't necessarily groundbreaking. Now,  sales are easily outpacing those of previous years for one main reason: More carriers are offering Apple's smartphones. Last year at this time, just AT&T was selling the iPhone in the U.S. Now, the device is available to Verizon and Sprint customers as well. More customers means more sales.

4. Pricing, pricing, pricing

One great thing about the iPhone is it hits a price point for any customer. Consumers on a budget can get the iPhone 3GS for free from carriers. The iPhone 4 is available for as little $99 with a two-year contract for those who want something a bit nicer. And those who want the latest and greatest handset can spend $199 or more to get the iPhone 4S. Apple's handsets are hitting the right price point to keep sales booming.

5. Android competition isn't where it should be

If Apple had to worry more about Android-based smartphones, perhaps iPhone sales wouldn't be so high. After all, the iPhone is dominating the mobile space right now compared to any other single handset on the market. And its sales are a reflection of that. But this is because it doesn't have a real threat.

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