A Korean source with a mixed track record, Yeux1122’s Blog claims that iPhone 14 Plus sales had been much worse than Apple had predicted. Now, the numbers have forced the tech giant to “seriously” reconsider the lineup of its upcoming iPhone 15 series.
In 2020, Apple launched its first-generation 5G enable iPhone 12 series with the smaller model, the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 mini. Although the small handset was created for users who preferred lightweight smartphones, iPhone 12 mini did not perform well because of its smaller battery and consumers’ preference for larger displays during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
In 2021, Apple continued the 5.4-inch model with improved battery life on iPhone 13 mini. But that strategy too did not work and iPhone 13 mini saw weak sales.
So, this year, the tech giant replaced the 5.4-inch mini model with the new iPhone 14 Plus which featured a larger 6.7-inch display, and battery but for a higher price. iPhone 13 mini starting price was $599 and iPhone 14 Plus starting price is $899 which I believe is the deal breaker.
For only $100 more than iPhone 14 Plus, the iPhone 14 Pro starts from $999 and offers several advanced features like the A16 Bionic chip, the Dynamic Island, Always On display, 48MP camera, and much more.
Apple might reduce the price of the new iPhone 15 Plus compared to the iPhone 14 Plus
Now, the report states that one of Apple’s strategies for the new iPhone 15 series is to reduce the price of the iPhone 15 Plus model compared to the iPhone 14 Plus model.
Apple has recently reported internally, as well as major supply chain component makers, the decline in sales of the current iPhone 14 Plus and basic models.
It is said that they are thinking seriously because the decline is far beyond the range predicted by the external environment.
The iPhone 14 Plus is in a serious situation, and the biggest problem is the price. The plus position of the 15 series is. It is likely that the price will be set differently than it is now.
Out of the four iPhone 14 models, iPhone 14 Plus launched a few days later than the other three. But even during the pre-order, iPhone 14 Plus saw the weakest demand. Therefore, China’s zero COVID-19 policy can not be solely held responsible for tanking its numbers.
Personally, the plan to reduce the price of the new 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Plus makes sense to create a wider gap between the base and Pro models.
Furthermore, the report reiterates that the company’s second strategy for the upcoming flagship iPhone series is to widen the gap between the base and pro models and also between the Pro and Pro Max model.
Actively considering reducing the difference between the pro model and the basic model rather than 14.
The difference in material and camera parts between the pro model and the max (15 series naming may change) is definitive. (Confirmed indirectly through suppliers of parts and basic body frames.)
Previously, tech analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said that Apple would widen the gap between the Pro and Pro Max models in iPhone 15 series. The company is also expected to introduce a new iPhone 15 Ultra model in 2023.
