Apple’s Policy Change Likely To Increase Costs Of Older iPhones In India

Apple has discontinued its demand-generation support program for offline retailers in India, which previously enabled cashback offers and promotional discounts on older iPhones. This strategic shift is expected to make older models more expensive, narrowing the affordability gap between new and pre-owned devices.

Impact On Consumers
Cashback offers that once reached ₹6,000 are now reduced to as little as ₹1,000, significantly increasing the effective cost of older iPhones. Price-sensitive buyers may turn to refurbished or pre-owned devices, while retailers are likely to introduce financing schemes to sustain demand.

Market Strategy And Outlook
Analysts suggest Apple’s move is aimed at protecting margins and positioning newer iPhone models more competitively. However, the decision could slow sales of older devices in India, where affordability remains a key driver of consumer choice. The market may see a shift in buying patterns toward installment-based purchases.

Key Highlights

• Apple ends demand-generation support for offline retailers
• Older iPhones may cost up to ₹5,000 more
• Cashback offers reduced from ₹6,000 to ₹1,000
• Refurbished and pre-owned iPhones may gain traction
• Retailers expected to push financing schemes to sustain demand

Sources: Business Standard, Economic Times, Mint