Apple has announced that it has more than 1 billion active devices globally, which includes iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, Apple TV, Mac and iPod touch.
On Tuesday, Apple revealed its financial results for its fiscal 2016 first quarter ended Dec. 26, 2015 and confirmed the active devices base. Apple determined the milestone by finding the number of devices that engaged with the company's services within the past 90 days.
"The growth of our Services business accelerated during the quarter to produce record results, and our installed base recently crossed a major milestone of one billion active devices," says Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple.
Apple suggests that the 1 billion active devices figure represents 25 percent year-over-year growth.
Devices sold represent one aspect of the business, while Apple devices being actively used by customers is another aspect. In November 2014, Apple confirmed that it has surpassed sales of 1 billion iOS devices.
Apple also confirmed that iPhones, Apple Watch and Apple TV were the key sales drivers in the quarter.
This is the first time that Apple has disclosed figures of its active devices. The popularity of the brand is growing worldwide. The cost of Apple products may be slightly on the higher side but high rate of customer satisfaction is resulting in more customers to upgrade their device or buy more Apple devices.
Apple is trying to expand its global reach and attract more customers to the brand. The Economic Times cites sources and report that Apple has filed an application to open its own Apple branded stores in India with the country's Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP).
Currently, Apple sells its products via authorized dealers in India. The opening of Apple's own store in India will enable the company to put more of its products in display and direct interaction with customers may result in attracting more customers to the brand and retain existing ones.
The iPhone is one of the most popular smartphones in the world. The launch of the iPhone 6s and the iPhone 6s Plus came with new features such as the pressure-sensitive technology called 3D Touch, which has enticed a large number of smartphone users.
iPad sales have been declining in the last few quarters. Apple has already launched the bigger-sized iPad Pro, which may attract customers looking for a big tablet. Apple is also rumored to introduce 3D Touch in its next-generation iPads in a bid to revive its tablet sales.
One billion active Apple devices is definitely a massive milestone for the company. However, Apple will have to try its best to increase or retain the number so that it gives stiff competition to its rivals.
