Apple offers rare iPhone discount in China as demand fears rise

15.01.2024

Apple is currently implementing price reductions on various products within its lineup in China, as evident on its official website. This move is in response to heightened competition and growing concerns about the demand for its flagship smartphone.

Running from January 18 to January 21, Apple is extending a discount of 500 Chinese yuan ($70) on its iPhone 15 series, which includes the premium iPhone 15 Pro Max. Additionally, discounts are applicable to specific Mac models and the iPad. These promotional offers precede the Lunar New Year celebrations in mid-February.

While it is not uncommon for third-party retailers in China to slash iPhone prices during holidays, it is noteworthy that Apple itself is initiating such discounts through its official channels.

In a January 7th report, analysts from Jefferies estimated a significant 30% year-on-year decline in iPhone sales for Apple in the first week of the current month. Furthermore, the report indicated a 3% year-on-year decrease in iPhone sales in China throughout 2023. This downturn is primarily attributed to intensifying competition posed by local competitors like Xiaomi and Huawei, renowned for their competitive high-end products.

Huawei, despite facing U.S. sanctions, successfully launched a smartphone last year featuring a high-end chip, hailed as a technological breakthrough by Chinese state media. This achievement has contributed to Huawei’s resurgence in the Chinese smartphone market, mitigating the impact of previous setbacks caused by U.S. restrictions.

Jefferies suggests that part of Apple’s iPhone sales decline last year can be attributed to the success of Huawei’s innovative devices.