Apple is rumored to be contemplating a redesign of its iPhone 15 family in response to the “concerning” sales performance of the iPhone 14 Plus. The iPhone 14 Plus is the newest member of the iPhone family and replaces the iPhone mini with a screen size of 5.4 inches.
According to reports, both non-Pro versions are experiencing low sales, with the Plus version suffering the most. The only difference between the standard iPhone 14 and the iPhone 14 Plus is a $100 price increase and a larger screen and battery. It appears that new iPhone buyers are opting for the more expensive Pro and Pro Max models, causing Apple to shift resources to meet the demand. Consequently, the company has reportedly reconsidered how to increase iPhone 15 sales.
With the iPhone 14 family, Apple deviated from its typical strategy of incorporating a new chip across its entire lineup. The iPhone 14 and 14 Plus retained the chip from last year, while the iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro received a newer and faster chip. Additionally, the Pro models received a new front design and a 48MP front camera.
Consumers appear to have observed the differences, or lack thereof and concluded that upgrading to a non-Pro model made no sense. However, the enhancements to the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max, including the addition of the Dynamic Island, were sufficient to convince Apple users to upgrade.
According to Yeux1122, a Naver leaker with a mixed track record, Apple is considering a few changes to its iPhone lineup next year.
First, the company is considering reducing the difference in features between the Pro and standard models. The Dynamic Island cutout, a higher refresh rate, and the iPhone 14 Pro’s front-facing 49MP camera are among the features that may make it to the non-Pro models.
Supposedly, price is another factor considered. According to earlier reports, the new iPhone 15 Pro Max (which is rumored to be renamed Ultra) will have a higher starting price. The remainder of the iPhone 15 lineup could also see a widening of price points, with non-Pro models possibly receiving price reductions.
Apple appears to be hoping that creating a more distinct price distinction between versions, without depriving non-Pro models of so many features, will help next year’s sales be more balanced. This is reasonable speculation at this point, but many more leaks and rumors will emerge before Apple announces the iPhone 15 family of smartphones officially next year.
