Summary
Apple Inc. reported strong financial results for the third quarter and the first nine months of fiscal year 2026, demonstrating robust growth across its product and services segments. Total net sales increased by 16% year-over-year for both periods, driven primarily by significant growth in iPhone sales, particularly the Pro models, and continued strength in Services, advertising, and cloud services. The company also saw notable expansion in its Europe and Greater China markets, with Europe up 22% and Greater China up 30% for the nine-month period, partially benefiting from favorable currency movements in Europe and Greater China. Profitability improved substantially, with gross margin increasing to 50.1% in the third quarter and 49.1% for the nine months, up from 46.5% and 46.8% respectively in the prior year. This improvement was attributed to a more favorable product mix, tariff refunds, and higher Services revenue, despite increased costs for certain components like memory. Research and Development expenses saw a significant increase of 33% for the nine-month period, reflecting investments in artificial intelligence and infrastructure. The company maintained a strong financial position, with substantial cash reserves and continued capital return programs, including significant share repurchases and dividend payments.
Key Highlights
- 1Total net sales grew by 16% year-over-year to $109.4 billion for the third quarter and $364.4 billion for the first nine months of fiscal 2026.
- 2iPhone sales surged by 22% year-over-year, driven by strong performance of Pro models.
- 3Services revenue increased by 12% and 14% for the third quarter and nine months, respectively, boosted by advertising and cloud services.
- 4Gross margin expanded significantly, reaching 50.1% in Q3 FY26 and 49.1% in the first nine months of FY26, up from 46.5% and 46.8% in the prior year.
- 5Operating income saw a substantial increase of 26% for the third quarter and 22% for the first nine months.
- 6R&D expenses increased by 32% in the third quarter and 33% for the nine months, indicating significant investment in future technologies like AI.
- 7The company returned $25.8 billion to shareholders through share repurchases and $4.0 billion in dividends during the third quarter of 2026.