iPhones were always expensive compared to other smartphones.
A look at the iPhone evolution will give you an idea of the price of an iPhone and how it has gradually increased to the point where it now costs more than $1,000.
It’s not just Apple, many other smartphone manufacturers charge absurdly high prices for their phones.
Think about the latest flagships from Samsung, Google, and Huawei, you’ll have to spend a fortune to afford them.
But have you ever wondered why iPhones are more expensive than Android phones? This article will break down why you pay so much for an iPhone.
1. Build Quality/Component Costs
Making a premium smartphone or any product requires premium components. And the iPhone is no exception.
iHS technology has concluded that the iPhone’s components are roughly worth double the cost of Android phones.
Now, an iPhone packs mind-blowing specs. The device has a better display, Face ID technology, Dynamic Island, a faster processor, multiple cameras, wireless charging, etc.
These features require a higher budget to engineer and pack all these components inside this small hardware.
Honestly, most iPhone buyers don’t care about specifications. They’ll upgrade regardless of the high price tag whenever a new iPhone comes out.
They are loyal to the brand, which is why Apple can charge whatever they want for an iPhone and get away with it.
2. Apple Ecosystem
Another reason iPhones are so expensive is that Apple designs and engineers not only the software but also the hardware, which drives the cost of the phone up.
The seamless integration of the iPhone and iOS provides a better user experience.
Other smartphone companies – like Samsung – only need to build the hardware and use Google’s Android operating system.
When you buy an iPhone, you’re part of a vast ecosystem and automatically have access to everything Apple.
You don’t need to worry about software updates. Whenever a new iOS rolls out, all eligible iOS devices will get it. Apple’s ecosystem is also what prevents its loyal customers from switching to Android.
In contrast, the scenario is markedly different for Android. With hundreds of different phone models, only a select few receive the latest Android version upon release.
Furthermore, each Android manufacturer must tailor the software to optimize performance on their devices.
Additionally, wireless carriers will preload their apps onto the software before user access, a practice prohibited by Apple for iPhones.
3. Better Security
Android phones face security challenges due to a lack of control over their software, especially when operating systems are outdated.
In contrast, iPhones stand out for their secure design. Regardless of the model, all iPhones receive consistent security features through unified software updates.
The app ecosystem plays a vital role in smartphone security. The vast Google Play Store introduces potential risks for Android users, as some apps may lead to malware.
On the other hand, Apple’s iPhone takes a proactive stance by limiting access to security-restricted apps, effectively reducing users’ exposure to malware and viruses.
4. Better Customer Support
Apple has by far the best customer support than any other smartphone company. If you live in the U.S., an Apple store should be near you for all your inquiries.
If you don’t live in the U.S., you can check Apple’s website for a list of Apple stores around the world. If your country is not listed, don’t worry. The in-store experience is as great as the online one.
All those physical retail stores cost Apple money to maintain and pay the employees. Part of the iPhone price goes to that budget.
5. Brand Value
It’s no secret that iPhones retain their value more effectively than Android phones.
This is attributed to Apple’s dedication to extended software support, ensuring older devices stay functional and updated, thus preserving performance over time.
The seamless hardware and software integration further boosts longevity and enhances the user experience.
The brand’s renowned commitment to quality, coupled with a consistently high demand for used iPhones, plays a crucial role in maintaining its premium price in the market.
Final Thoughts on Why iPhones Are So Expensive
If you consider all those factors, you’ll realize the iPhone is worth every penny Apple is charging you for.
But if your judgment is based on those iPhone teardown articles on the internet – that only elaborate on the component prices without considering any of these factors – you’ll be convinced that the iPhone is a rip-off.
The bottom line is that Apple offers more than other phone manufacturers. When you buy an iPhone, you buy high-quality, security, and privacy, a friendly user experience, excellent support, and help.
So, over to you. Do you think it’s reasonable to spend over $1k on an iPhone? Or do you think Apple is charging way too much for its iPhones?
