Apple is expected to ship 53 million units of iPhone 6 devices in the first quarter of 2015, according to a Chinese-language Commercial Times report, citing data from Morgan Stanley. The US-based investment institution forecast previously iPhone 6-series shipments for the quarter to reach 51 million units.

Meanwhile, shipments of all iPhone devices will reach 54.5 million units during the quarter, down 21% on quarter but up 43% on year.

Apple may also place orders for 45 million units of iPhone 6 devices for the second quarter, up from a previous estimate of 42-44 million units, Morgan Stanley said.