Uswitch comments on Apple’s iPhone 15 launch announcement
Ru Bhikha, Uswitch mobiles expert comments: “After years of industry pressure, Apple has finally relented and adopted the universal USB-C charging port. While this move is well overdue, it is still a big step change in charging ease and will offer consumers more flexibility. This extends to all new Apple products, including AirPods.
“Sustainability was discussed a lot at the event, yet nothing about what would happen to the soon to become obsolete lightning cables. It’ll be interesting to see if Apple offers a free recycling or trade-in scheme for customers in the near future.
“While the iPhone 15 Plus comes with a ‘bigger’ battery, Apple has remained tight-lipped thus far about how this translates to battery life. Our recent research found that battery life was the number one consideration for Brits when buying a new smartphone.
“Performance and durability were a key focus - both for the iPhone and Apple Watch this year. The A16 bionic chip, which had been included in the iPhone 14 Pro, is being included in both the lower and higher end versions of the iPhone 15.
“While the hardware updates are impressive and will be welcomed by consumers - many upcoming software updates will also be available on the latest operating system - iOS17, which will be rolled out to existing Apple users, regardless.
“The new iPhone 15 and 15 Pro will be slightly cheaper than last year’s models. Prices start at £799, down from the £849 starting price of the iPhone 14 last year, while the iPhone 15 Pro is priced at £999 - down £100 from the £1,099 the iPhone 14 Pro cost in 2022.
“While it’s positive to see a drop in price, these phones are still a big investment. As households are feeling the pinch more than ever, it’s important to research what’s on offer before splashing out. Our research shows that fewer than two-thirds of Brits thoroughly research a prospective new smartphone or plan before making a purchase.
“From Pay Monthly plans with loads of great perks, to cost effective SIM only plans, and super flexible leasing options, there is a wide range of ways to enjoy the latest Apple tech without overpaying.”
Ru Bhikha’s tips to save on your iPhone
Looking to buy an iPhone this year? Whether you’re going to go straight in for the iPhone 15, or you’re looking at the other models, check out our money saving tips below to ensure you’re getting the best deal that suits your needs.
Wait for the optimal time: Prices for the latest model are at their highest immediately after a launch, with lots of hype but very few money-saving deals on the market. Savings of between £70 to £144 can be predicted to be made if phones are purchased during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday period.
Thinking about buying an older model? If you don’t need the latest tech, you will find it considerably cheaper to buy the previous handset. Apple also rolls out software upgrades to previous devices, meaning you’ll still get many of the new features being unveiled. For those who are thinking about buying the iPhone 14 through a contract, our analysis suggests that the best time to buy would be during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday period.
Keep your eyes peeled: The most popular deals may only be available for a very limited time, so you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled for reductions. You can also sign up for email newsletters from providers, as they use these to advertise deals to potential customers.
Look at discontinued models: As well as launching new devices each year, Apple also will stop offering some older models to prevent too many options on the market and control its production lines. These discontinued mobiles - like the second-generation iPhone SE - can still be bought elsewhere, and often for far less.
ENDS
Notes to editors Research by Opinium on behalf of Uswitch, 2,000 respondents, August 2023
About Uswitch
Uswitch is one of the UK’s top comparison websites for home services switching, including energy, broadband and mobiles.
More people go to Uswitch to switch their energy, broadband and mobile than any other site, and we have saved consumers over £2.7 billion off their bills since we launched in September 2000.
Free mobile app Utrack also helps households manage their home energy usage and make potential savings.
Uswitch is part of RVU, a group of online brands with a mission to empower consumers to make more confident home services, insurance and financial decisions.