Apple (AAPL) News Today

Apple Inc. (AAPL) shares are trading higher on a mix of upbeat analyst actions, strong iPhone demand data and continued momentum in Services, although competitive and regulatory headwinds temper some optimism.

• Positive Sentiment: Bank of America upgraded AAPL to Buy and raised its price target to $270, citing strength in Apple’s AI roadmap and new product support. Apple’s AI Roadmap, Product Launch Support BofA Buy Rating, Target Raised to $270
• Positive Sentiment: Bernstein restarted coverage on AAPL with a buy rating and a $290 price target, highlighting Apple’s strong cash flow and product pipeline. Bernstein restarts AAPL coverage with $290 price target
• Positive Sentiment: Bernstein’s Mark Newman projects Apple to be a major beneficiary of on-device AI, potentially boosting future margins and differentiation. Apple could reap big gains from on-device AI, says Bernstein analyst
• Positive Sentiment: Preorder data show iPhone 17 demand tracking modestly ahead of last year’s launch, bolstering confidence in the flagship refresh. Apple iPhone 17 Demand 'Tracking Modestly Ahead Of iPhone 16'
• Positive Sentiment: Apple TV+ captured 22 Emmy wins this year, driving subscriber growth and service-revenue momentum. Apple's TV+ Business Gets a Boost With 22 Emmy Wins
• Positive Sentiment: Barron's reports Apple stock rose on strong iPhone 17 preorder trends, reversing initial post-launch disappointment. Apple Stock Gains. What Preorders Say About iPhone 17 Demand.
• Neutral Sentiment: AAPL was featured in MarketBeat’s fitness and music stock screeners today, reflecting its diverse ecosystem reach. Fitness Stocks To Consider - September 16th
• Neutral Sentiment: Addigy expanded its leadership team to support high demand for Apple device management solutions, underscoring third-party ecosystem strength. Addigy Accelerates Momentum With Expanded Leadership Team
• Neutral Sentiment: Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 introduces its biggest redesign since iOS 7 with a Liquid Glass interface and new AI features, setting the stage for next-gen user experiences. Everything You Need To Know About iOS 26
• Negative Sentiment: Google’s Gemini app overtook ChatGPT as the top free download in Apple’s App Store, highlighting intensifying competition for Apple’s developer fees. Google's Gemini tops Apple's App Store
• Negative Sentiment: Seeking Alpha warns Apple’s “innovation ineffectiveness” persists and labels the stock as “dead money” absent fresh catalysts. Apple: Innovation Ineffectiveness Continues
• Negative Sentiment: Zacks highlights AI development delays and mounting competition from Xiaomi, leading some investors to consider tech ETFs over single-stock exposure. Pain or Gain Ahead of Apple? ETFs in Focus
• Negative Sentiment: WSJ’s Tim Higgins cautions that ongoing legal and regulatory battles over the App Store could distract Apple’s management and weigh on margins. Apple is facing a situation similar to the one Microsoft faced a generation ago

Overall, AAPL’s upward move reflects strong iPhone demand data, bullish analyst revisions and solid Services execution, while increased competitive pressure in the App Store and regulatory/legal risks remain watchpoints for investors.