Buying a new iPhone always requires some research. For example, what is the best time, but more importantly, the worst time to buy one? WANT provides the answer.
New iPhones are usually released seasonally, just like most other electronics. That means that by buying strategically, you can save quite a bit of money. Or you can avoid regretting your new iPhone.
We dove into the timeline of Apple’s product launches and tell you when is the best time to buy a new iPhone. And, of course, also when it’s better to wait a while.
Here’s the best time to buy a new iPhone
There’s really no “best” time to buy a new iPhone. Apple prices don’t change often, and providers and stores usually offer similar trade-in benefits throughout the year.
But if you want to be smart, fall is usually a good time to consider an iPhone. That’s often when the new version comes out, and the prices of older iPhones drop. Not only at Apple, but also at other retailers throughout the year. That way you can calmly decide whether to upgrade or stay with your current smartphone for another year.
In general, we recommend upgrading if your phone is more than two generations old. This is because the latest features, such as Apple Intelligence, are often found on models with the newest chips.
If you want to go for the newest of the latest, then it’s a different story. In this case, it’s best to wait a few weeks or months after launch. Right after release, many colors and models sell out quickly due to high demand. By being patient for a while, you increase your chances of getting the iPhone that suits you exactly. It also allows you to keep a closer eye on any bugs or problems.
Don’t expect the latest flagship model to drop in price after only a few months. You can really write that on your fingers.
In these months, it’s better to wait
So there’s not really a perfect time to buy a new iPhone. But there is definitely a worst time, from late July to early September. In other words, don’t buy an iPhone right before Apple launches a new one.
New iPhones usually bring upgrades to the camera, a new processor (especially on Pro models), and other new features. If you buy the current model right before the launch of a new one, you miss out on these improvements. And you pay the same price for them that you might spend on a new-generation iPhone.
If you do make a mis-buy, there is still a glimmer of hope. If Apple lowers the price of the iPhone in question within two weeks of your purchase, you can request a refund of the price difference. At least, if you make the request within two weeks of the price drop.
You may be wondering whether it’s worth waiting for the latest iPhone 16 or buying a new iPhone 15 now. It’s not a strange question, as the models seem pretty similar. We’ve compared both smartphones for you in the article below.