Exclusive iPhone Discounts Unveiled by Apple in China
In an unusual move, Apple has decided to offer temporary discounts on its range of products, including iPhones, in China. This strategic decision comes amidst growing competition in the Asian smartphone market. The discounts, which are part of a Lunar New Year promotion, include reductions of up to 500 RMB ($70) on the latest iPhone models. Additionally, flagship Apple products such as the Mac and iPad will see discounts of up to 800 RMB ($112) and 400 RMB ($56), respectively. The promotion is scheduled to run from January 18 to January 21.
Unlike third-party sellers who occasionally discount Apple products, the tech giant itself seldom participates in such sales. This approach has been a key element of Apple’s strategy to uphold its premium brand image, especially as it targets high-end consumers in China.
The decision to lower iPhone prices follows the release of Huawei’s latest smartphone, the Mate 60 Pro, about five months ago. The Huawei device gained significant popularity among Chinese consumers, drawing attention to its advanced chip technology, which raised concerns among US officials.
Around the time of Huawei’s smartphone launch, there were reports that China had prohibited central government officials from using iPhones. However, a Chinese government spokesperson later refuted these claims, denying the existence of any laws or rules banning the use of iPhones.
The discounted iPhone prices in China have sparked discussions about the current demand for Apple products in the world’s second-largest economy. China has historically been a crucial market for Apple, contributing to roughly one-fifth of the company’s overall sales last year.
Recent data indicates a decline in iPhone 15 sales, with a 4.5% decrease compared to iPhone 14 sales in the first two weeks after its September launch, according to Counterpoint Research. Jefferies Research also reported a 30% drop in iPhone sales during the first week of the new year.
China remains one of Apple’s vital markets, ranking second in sales globally, behind only North America. However, challenges in China’s economy over the past year have impacted Apple’s overall growth. Recently, Apple ceded its position as the stock market’s most valuable company to Microsoft.
