While it is widely expected that we can expect a price hike for Apple’s upcoming iPhone 14 lineup, a new report indicates the price increase won’t be as high as has been expected.
Apple is expected to replace its non-Pro spots in the lineup currently filled by mini and standard models with a standard and a Max model. While allowing users to opt for a 6,7-inch screen size without being forced to purchase the highest Pro model, this would indicate a higher asking price for the lineup.
Other reasons for the increased prices include expected camera improvements for the iPhone 14 lineup, with the Pro sensor being increased from 12MP to 48MP. 8K video recording is also a possibility.
Apple is also rumored to be considering dropping the 128GB starting storage on the iPhone, replacing it with a 256GB base amount.
The iPhone 14 lineup is also expected to get satellite communications capabilities. Additionally, component costs have risen significantly , likely leading Apple to increase its prices, in order to protect the all-important profit margins.
Many have expected the base model iPhone would remain at $799. Prices have been expected to be:
- iPhone 14: $799
- iPhone 14 Max: $899
- iPhone 14 Pro: $1,099
- iPhone 14 Pro Max: $1,199
However, market intelligence company TrendForce says that it expects Apple to play it safe with smaller increases, in order to preserve sales.
Upgrades such as initial starting memory capacity increasing to LPDDR5 6GB and 256GB, primary camera moving up to 48 million, Face ID Design changes, etc., are expected to raise starting prices. However, under pressure from rising global inflation and foreign exchange rates, Apple is expected to adopt a more cautious pricing strategy so as not to affect its sales performance.
TrendForce predicts more modest iPhone 14 price increases, with starting prices of:
- iPhone 14: $749
- iPhone 14 Max: $849
- iPhone 14 Pro: $1,049
- iPhone 14 Pro Max: $1,149
(Via 9to5Mac)
