Apple has announced rare discounts on its new iPhones in China, with discounts of up to 500 yuan ($70) on the iPhone 15 series, including the high-end iPhone 15 Pro Max. The measure, available on the official Chinese website, comes amid growing concerns about increased competition and declining demand for Apple’s flagship smartphones.
The discount period starts from January 18 to January 21, a campaign before the Chinese New Year. Mid-February is the busiest shopping season. The roughly 5% price cut for high-end iPhones, is a departure from Apple’s usual pricing in Chinese stores.
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Jefferies analysts stated that iPhone sales dropped by up to 30% on an annual basis in the first week of the month. They also added that iPhone sales in China will fall 3% annually in 2023. Competition is increasing with local rivals such as Xiaomi and Huawei offering similar products. tw is believed to be a major factor in the decline in Apple’s business.
Huawei managed to cope with US sanctions last year and launched the best phones using advanced technology. This is considered important among Apple’s difficulties in the Chinese market. Jefferies attributed some of the decline in Apple’s iPhone sales to the success of Huawei equipment, marking the comeback of the Chinese tech giant in the smartphone market.
Apple is not only extending the discount to the iPhone lineup, but oddly enough, it also applies to some Mac models, iPads, AirPods, and Apple Watch SE. The price reduction of MacBook Air is up to 800 yuan; This reflects Apple’s efforts to rebound in the face of fierce competition and changing consumer preferences in China.