Apple Might Soon Charge More for iPhones That Are Inferior to Cheaper Alternatives

Apple Might Soon Charge More for iPhones That Are Inferior to Cheaper Alternatives

This spring, Apple is set to unveil a significant upgrade for the iPhone SE 4, which may create a notable issue within the iPhone lineup. The tech giant appears poised to continue retailing both the iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 at higher prices compared to the new SE, even though the latter offers superior value.

Exciting Features on the Horizon for the iPhone SE 4

iPhone SE 4

When the anticipated iPhone SE 4 makes its debut—predicted for March—it promises to showcase an impressive array of features.

Key highlights include:

  • Edge-to-edge OLED display with a notch
  • Face ID with no Home Button
  • A18 chip found in the iPhone 16
  • 8GB of RAM
  • Support for Apple Intelligence
  • 48MP rear-facing camera
  • USB-C port
  • Incorporation of Apple’s advanced in-house 5G modem

The existing iPhone SE starts at a price of $429.

Given the substantial enhancements of the SE 4, it’s anticipated that Apple will adjust the price to approximately $499.

However, the catch is that even at this price, Apple will still be asking more for the aging iPhone models that are comparatively inferior.

The Challenge of Marketing the iPhone 15 and 14

Chinese iPhone ban denied | Photo from iPhone 15 launch event

Apple typically continues to sell previous iPhone models for several years following their release. This practice is consistent for standard models, though not for the Pro versions.

Currently, Apple offers the following iPhone lineup:

  • iPhone 16 Pro & 16 Pro Max
  • iPhone 16 & 16 Plus
  • iPhone 15 & 15 Plus
  • iPhone 14 & 14 Plus
  • iPhone SE

This lineup appears cohesive in terms of both features and pricing.

However, this balance will shift when the new SE launches, phasing out the outdated current SE model.

By March, the lineup will consist of the iPhone 15 priced at $699, the iPhone 14 at $599, and the iPhone SE 4 likely at $499.

On paper, the most affordable model will outperform Apple’s more expensive options in most aspects.

The iPhone SE 4 will feature up-to-date specifications, enhanced Apple Intelligence support, additional RAM, a superior chip, and more.

It’s undeniable that it will stand out as the best option among the three new iPhones.

Higher-Priced iPhones Will Lack Compelling Features

Apple Intelligence features

As we approach spring, the iPhone 15 and 14 will only have a few benefits over the iPhone SE:

  1. The iPhone 15 features Dynamic Island instead of a notch.
  2. Both the 15 and 14 come with an Ultra Wide camera, which the SE lacks.

It’s unclear who might prefer these shortcomings over the SE’s advantages.

Even if the SE weren’t more cost-effective, there’s no doubt it is the superior choice.

With AI capabilities, added RAM, and the more advanced A18 chip, it emerges as the preferred option for the majority of consumers. Now, considering the $100 to $200 premium on the alternatives, the iPhone SE becomes an even more clear cut choice.

Who do you believe would select an iPhone 14 or 15 over the new SE 4? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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