Those of you who have been planning to get an iPhone but only had the budget for a lower-end model, you can say goodbye to your dreams of entering the big boys league. Because Apple has officially and successfully shattered your dream. In today’s hope crushing news, Apple has made the decision to discontinue the sales of iPhone SE, 6s Plus, 6 Plus in India. Trust Apple to make such decisions. So, what now?
The Shift in Apple India Market
Now, my poor friends (pun intended, sorry not sorry!), the entry-level iPhone in the Indian market will be iPhone 6s. Just last year, Apple pushed for the sales of iPhone SE, 6s Plus and 6 Plus in India. But now, Apple isn’t as worried about the market share, and instead is focusing on the value of the phone, according to Economic Times. The entry price for iPhones jumped from ₹17,000 to ₹30,000, increasing the gap by ₹8,000 ($116). The only takeaway from this, for me, is that Apple is tired of us Indian folks not buying enough higher-end models so, voila! Tim Cook and co decided to just do away with the lower-end models. If there are no lower-end phones, you have to buy the higher-end ones. As simple as that.
According to a leading Apple trade partner, “Cupertino does not want Apple India to chase volumes by discounting at the cost of profit.” The trader also said, “These models which are being phased out will increase the average selling price of iPhones in India and boost both profit and revenue.”
Apple had a good year in 2018-19 as they saw marked improvements in its revenue and profits since focusing on high-end iPhone models. However, the iPhone sales scene was lacking in favourable action. And to tackle this unpleasant issue, the company dropped iPhone XR prices through a promotion. ‘Tis the fastest way to see sales improvements, after all. And not surprisingly, their sales immediately picked up in the April-June quarter. Which proves that people will always prefer something that doesn’t punch (oops, I meant pinch) their pockets.
They Give Us The Poison And The Cure
Oh, don’t mind the dramatic language but that’s what Apple’s strategy feels like. First, killing us with the news and then reviving us, just a smidge, with another. According to an Apple exec, Tim Cook and co won’t be completely ruthless. They will take into consideration our bank account balance with only zeroes. And in doing so, the company will offer buy-back and cashback offers to improve the affordability factor. Umm, applause all around..?
In any case, you still have a slim chance (your last one too) to get your hands on the discontinued models. Although the production of these models stopped last month, retailers will be selling iPhone SE, 6s Plus and 6 Plus in India until stocks last. So, dash to your nearest store now because Amazon and Flipkart are already out of stock!
But given that India is a price-sensitive market will Apple benefit from this move? What do you think about this strategy? Let us know in the comments if you think they’re bonkers or brilliant!
