Apple upbeat on Asia despite ‘weak’ quarter

After announcing its first-ever drop in iPhone sales on Tuesday night, Apple sought to reassure investors by saying its latest and cheapest model was in strong demand after being launched in late March. Some retailers and suppliers in Asia aren’t so sure.

In a Reuters survey of 10 retailers in Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, seven — including four Apple Stores — reported solid early demand, but three third-party retailers said sales were weak.

Two suppliers of components for Apple phones, including the new iPhone SE, said they were seeing lower orders.