Apple is reducing the price of several of its biggest mobile products in the coming days – including the iPhone 13 series. These discounts will only be available to customers in China.
While we’re used to seeing cuts from third-party retailers, Apple is notoriously resistant to offering price drops on its own products (aside from a recurring student discount in select markets), making such future cuts a surprising move and raising questions about the potential for such businesses elsewhere.
as seen by Bloomberg (opens in new tab)From July 29 to August 1, Apple is hosting what it’s calling its summer shopping event (opens in new tab)which sees the following savings available to customers using specific payment methods, including Alipay.
In the shadow of COVID-19, many established players in China’s mobile market have faced challenges, including temporary shutdowns and supply chain disruptions, combined with weaker product demand from consumers, rising manufacturing costs and inflation.
Apple, however, had market share growth in the last quarter – between April and June.
Analysis: Why just China?
While it may seem unfair that Apple is handing out deals that fans outside of China can’t, the company clearly closely monitors conditions in each market it sells in and makes very different decisions, often informed by local factors.
The iPhone price has actually increased recently in Japan – as the value of the yen has dropped against the dollar to a 24-year low (again, via Bloomberg (opens in new tab)) – while the iPhone SE (2022) has become more expensive for US consumers compared to its 2020 predecessor when it launched in March.
The good thing is that in many markets, even if it hasn’t made them cheaper, Apple has made the process of buying one of the best smartphones on the market a little more palatable, with options that include installment plans that offer 0% discount. fees.
Even though Apple isn’t offering a deal, there are iPhone discounts at third-party retailers. Start your search by checking out our best iPhone deals available now.