Apple Discontinues Select iPhones in India: Consumer Impact Explained

In an unexpected turn of events, Apple has discontinued a range of its previous-generation iPhones in India, leaving consumers in a state of uncertainty. Just when many were eyeing a potential bargain on the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro Max, following the iPhone 15's launch, Apple abruptly discontinued these models. This decision has hit Indian consumers hard, particularly in light of the steep price increases for the latest "Pro" models. The iPhone 15 Pro now starts at Rs 134,990, while its more feature-rich counterpart, the iPhone 15 Pro Max, begins at Rs 159,990—a hike of Rs 5,000 and Rs 10,000, respectively, from their previous versions.

The Compact iPhone Era Comes to a Close

The discontinuation doesn't stop at the flagship models. Enthusiasts of compact smartphones have also been left disappointed, as the iPhone 13 Mini has been withdrawn from the market. Apple initially ventured into the "mini" category with the iPhone 12 and 13 series, but tepid sales prompted a strategic shift. Last year, the company introduced the iPhone 14 Plus, effectively sounding the death knell for the 5.4-inch iPhone 13 Mini. Now, the second-generation iPhone SE remains the sole option for those favouring smaller handsets, albeit with a screen size of just 4.7 inches—considered small by contemporary standards.

A Farewell to the Trailblazing iPhone 12

The iPhone 12, a pioneering device that was the world's first 5G iPhone and showcased a symmetrical geometric design, has also been discontinued.

A Glimmer of Hope for Consumers

However, it's not all bleak news. While Apple has stopped selling these models through its official online store and physical outlets in Delhi and Mumbai, third-party retailers are likely to have remaining stock. The iPhone 13 Mini, though, could be the most difficult to find.

The Latest Line-up and Its Pricing Structure

Turning to the newly-unveiled iPhone 15 series, the base model starts at Rs 79,990 for the 128GB version. The iPhone 15 Plus is priced at Rs 89,990, while the iPhone 15 Pro begins at Rs 134,990 for an identical storage capacity. Intriguingly, the iPhone 15 Pro Max starts at Rs 159,990 but offers a 256GB storage variant. All four models are set to be released in India concurrently with their U.S. launch, scheduled for Friday, September 22nd.

The Local Production Factor and Market Dynamics

This development comes amid Apple's increased iPhone production in India. Many had hoped that local manufacturing would lead to reduced iPhone prices, but this has not been the case. Apple only manufactures the standard iPhone 15 models locally, while the Pro and Pro Max versions are still imported. Apple hasn’t figured out production for the titanium construction on the iPhone pro models which previously used stainless steel. The standard iPhone 15 model uses aluminium. Factors such as inflation and a weakening Indian Rupee against the U.S. dollar have contributed to Apple maintaining the iPhone 15's price, while slightly inflating the cost of the imported Pro models.

Apple now ranks as the 7th largest mobile phone seller in India, capturing a 5.5% market share. It dominates two-thirds of the ultra-premium segment, and India has ascended to become one of Apple's top five global markets.

In summary, Apple's latest move to discontinue certain iPhone models in India has far-reaching implications, affecting a broad spectrum of consumers—from those seeking last year's flagships to aficionados of compact smartphones. While third-party retailers offer some respite, the spotlight now turns to the iPhone 15 series and its potential impact on the Indian market.