The highly anticipated iPhone 15 has been the subject of numerous leaks, unveiling some of Apple’s most significant design changes. However, alongside these exciting revelations, concerns are growing among consumers about potential price hikes. These fears have now been confirmed by a leading industry voice, sparking discussions among analysts about the implications for Apple and its customers.
Rising Prices and Expert Analysis:
Prominent Wedbush analyst Dan Ives recently released a research note, which was seen by Barron’s, confirming that the iPhone 15 range will indeed be more expensive than its predecessors. Further emphasizing this point, Ives appeared on CNBC, reiterating that the average selling price for next-generation iPhones will see an increase. Given Ives’ track record of accurate predictions, particularly regarding international price increases for the iPhone 14, his statements carry significant weight.
Implications for Consumers:
While U.S. customers were spared from the iPhone 14 price rises, it is expected that they will face higher costs with the introduction of the iPhone 15 lineup. Multiple analysts and insiders have suggested potential price increases of up to $200, particularly for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models. This news will understandably raise concerns among U.S. buyers. However, international customers, who experienced a major price increase in the previous iteration, may face their second successive significant price hike.
Analyst Outlook and Market Impact:
Despite the price concerns, Dan Ives remains bullish on Apple, raising his 12-month stock target to $220 from $205. He believes that the iPhone 15 cycle could be a pivotal moment for the company, with the potential to sell 235 million to 240 million units. Ives’ research indicates that there is a substantial backlog of potential buyers, as approximately 250 million iPhones have not been upgraded in over four years. This creates a significant opportunity for Apple to capture a large market share.
Assessing the iPhone 15 Lineup:
While leaks have provided insight into the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus designs, as well as the enhancements expected in the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models, overall improvements appear to be modest. The leaks suggest that the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will feature updated designs and chipsets, while the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models will come with faster processors, improved cameras, and an ‘Action Button.’ Additionally, a range-wide transition to USB-C is anticipated. However, early iPhone 16 leaks indicate even more ambitious smartphones, with some influential leakers discouraging iPhone 15 upgrades.
Update: iPhone 15 Pricing Details:
A trusted source has provided additional information regarding the pricing of the iPhone 15 models. Contrary to earlier reports of potential $200 increases, this source suggests that a $100 rise is more likely, with Apple yet to decide on raising the cost of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus. If accurate, the following price breakdown is expected:
- iPhone 15: $799
- iPhone 15 Plus: $899
- iPhone 15 Pro: $1,099
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: $1,199
The widening price gap between Pro and non-Pro models seems logical, considering that the standard models increasingly borrow design and chipset elements from the previous year’s Pro versions. Notably, only the iPhone 15 Pro Max will feature a periscope optical zoom lens, which may justify its separate price increase.
Further Analysis and Expected Features:
According to industry analyst Jeff Pu of Haitong International Securities, the average selling price of iPhone 15 models is projected to rise due to an increase in price for the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Pu suggests that Apple’s focus is on expanding the gap between Pro and standard iPhones. He also expects improved RAM performance, faster LPDDR5, and new 48-megapixel primary cameras with three-stacked sensors. Additionally, Pu believes that the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus will utilize the 4nm A16 Bionic chip from the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max, while the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max will feature the next-generation 3nm A17 chip. These features reflect Apple’s strategy of incorporating Pro-level advancements into standard models.
As the iPhone 15’s release approaches, confirmed price increases have sparked concerns among consumers. While Apple aims to capture a vast number of potential buyers with its impressive backlog, the modest improvements and rising costs may put customers’ loyalty to the test. The pricing details provided by a trusted source shed light on the potential price breakdown, indicating that Apple may focus on widening the price gap between Pro and non-Pro models. As the market eagerly awaits the official launch, industry analysts continue to assess the impact these changes may have on Apple’s overall performance.