This marks the second consecutive year Apple has adjusted its global rollout strategy to prioritize Vietnam. In previous years, the country usually fell into the third or fourth tier, with release dates two to six weeks behind key markets such as the US, Japan, China, and Singapore.

That trend began to shift in 2024 with the iPhone 16 series, when Vietnam was included in the early rollout group, only about two weeks behind the first-tier markets. With the iPhone 17, Vietnamese customers will now be among the earliest worldwide to purchase the new models directly from the Apple Store in Vietnam.

The move underscores Vietnam’s rising importance in Apple’s global strategy, not only in sales, but also in its growing influence within Southeast Asia. It also marks a historic shift in the iPhone’s 15-year history, showing that Apple no longer considers Vietnam a “secondary” market but has elevated it to a strategic position globally.

Apple’s confidence is backed by strong market fundamentals. Vietnam has recorded rapid growth in iPhone, iPad, and AirPods users in recent years, supported by the launch of the official Apple Store online, an expanded network of authorized resellers, and improved after-sales service.

Vietnam’s growing role in Apple’s supply chain further strengthens this position. More factories assembling iPhones and producing components are moving to Vietnam, helping Apple cut logistics costs and accelerate product distribution.

The simultaneous launch of the iPhone 17 in Vietnam alongside the US, Japan, China, and Singapore is an important milestone. With a young, tech-savvy consumer base eager for premium devices and capable of driving strong media impact, Vietnam is firmly established as one of Apple’s key growth markets.

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