When to buy iphone

One of the easiest ways to figure out the best time to snag an iPhone is by understanding Apple’s predictable release cycle.

Here’s the deal: Apple almost always unveils new iPhones in September. This means if you’re looking for the absolute latest model, you should aim for the weeks immediately following that announcement. But if saving money is your main goal, then September’s new release is your signal to grab a previous generation model, as those prices typically drop pretty quickly. You’ll often find discounts and trade-in deals popping up from carriers like Verizon and AT&T, sometimes even offering the newest devices for a significantly reduced price or with substantial credit for your old phone. For example, the iPhone 17 series is expected to be announced on September 9, 2025, with pre-orders starting on September 12 and the official release on September 19. This period is usually when the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models will see official price reductions and aggressive deals from retailers.

It’s not just about new releases, though. Other key times to consider are major shopping events like Black Friday/Cyber Monday in late November and Amazon Prime Day around mid-July. These events often bring some of the steepest discounts on a range of iPhones, from the latest flagships to older, still-excellent models. Keep an eye out for renewed or refurbished iPhones on platforms like Amazon Renewed, as these can offer fantastic value, especially during these sales. You might even find some iPhone accessories on sale to complete your new phone setup!

Now, let’s dig into the details and find your perfect buying window.

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When to Buy a New iPhone: Your Best Opportunities

Timing your iPhone purchase can make a big difference in how much you spend and what model you get your hands on. Let’s break down the prime opportunities.

1. Immediately After the September Launch for Newer Models

Apple has a pretty consistent rhythm: new iPhones drop every September. The iPhone 16 series, for instance, launched in September 2024. Looking ahead, we’re expecting the iPhone 17 series to be announced on September 9, 2025, with pre-orders beginning September 12 and the official release on September 19.

• Why it’s a good time: If you’re someone who has to have the latest and greatest, buying right after the launch is your best bet. While Apple itself rarely offers outright discounts on brand-new models, carriers and major retailers often roll out aggressive trade-in deals that can significantly cut the upfront cost. Sometimes, you can even get the new iPhone for “free” with an eligible trade-in and a new unlimited plan. These deals are often the cheapest way to get the newest model in the first few weeks.
• What to look for: Keep an eye on your current carrier like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, or Boost Mobile for announcements right after the Apple event. They’ll typically offer credits of up to $1000 for trading in an older device, especially if you’re signing up for an unlimited data plan. You can often find deals like “get up to $1000 in credits” for a new iPhone when trading in an iPhone 12 or newer.

2. October and November: The Sweet Spot for Older Models

This is arguably the best time of year to buy an older iPhone model at a discounted price. Why? Because the new iPhones have just been released, and retailers need to clear out their inventory of the previous generations.

• Why it’s a good time: Apple usually reduces the price of the previous year’s models by $100-$200. For example, after the iPhone 16 launched, the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus saw a $100 discount. You can expect similar price drops for the iPhone 16 series once the iPhone 17 is out. Beyond Apple’s official price adjustments, third-party retailers and carriers will also offer their own sales to move stock. Resale values of the latest previous model can drop by 20-30% immediately after a new launch.
• What to look for: This is when you’ll see the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max start to become more affordable. If you don’t need the very latest features, getting a one-year-old iPhone is a smart move for saving a good chunk of money while still enjoying a fantastic device with years of updates ahead. You can often find great prices on unlocked models from retailers.

3. Black Friday and Cyber Monday Late November

These mega-sales events are consistently great opportunities for iPhone deals. They happen just a few weeks after the new iPhone launch, so you can often find good discounts even on the newer models, or even better deals on the slightly older generations. When to Buy Hydrangea Plants: Your Ultimate Guide to Gorgeous Blooms

• Why it’s a good time: Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer some of the best overall discounts on various iPhone models, including both new and refurbished options. You’ll find deals from almost every major retailer and carrier.
• What to look for:
  • Direct discounts: While Apple typically offers gift cards with purchases instead of direct price cuts during Black Friday, many other retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and carriers will have actual sales.
  • Carrier bundles: Look for “free iPhone” deals with new lines or specific unlimited plans, often tied to significant trade-ins.
  • Refurbished deals: Retailers and platforms like Back Market and Amazon Renewed often have excellent prices on certified refurbished iPhones during this period.

4. Amazon Prime Day Mid-July

Amazon’s annual Prime Day sale, usually in mid-July, has become a strong contender for getting good iPhone deals.

• Why it’s a good time: Prime Day often brings discounts on unlocked iPhones, especially refurbished models through the Amazon Renewed Premium program. Other major retailers often run “Prime Day-adjacent” sales to compete, so keep an eye out across different stores.
• What to look for: You might see deals on models like the iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 14, often with significant percentage off the original price. It’s an excellent time to grab an unlocked iPhone if you prefer flexibility with carriers or need a second device.

5. Early Spring for iPhone SE/16e models

Apple doesn’t always stick to September. Sometimes, they’ll release an updated iPhone SE or a new “e” model like the iPhone 16e in the spring. The iPhone 16e was launched in February 2025.

• Why it’s a good time: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly iPhone that still offers solid performance and Apple’s ecosystem, the SE or “e” models are fantastic. These devices typically use slightly older chipsets but in a familiar design, offering a great balance of cost and capability.
• What to look for: Keep an eye on Apple’s announcements around March/April. While new releases won’t see immediate discounts, previous SE models might drop in price. For instance, the iPhone 16e saw a substantial discount in India ahead of the iPhone 17 launch.

6. New Year and Winter Sales January

After the holiday rush, many retailers continue to offer sales to clear out remaining inventory.

• Why it’s a good time: January sales can be a good time to find discounts on previous-generation iPhones, similar to the post-September period but potentially with even steeper reductions as stores try to clear shelves.
• What to look for: You might find excellent deals on models that are one or two generations old, perfect for those who don’t need the absolute latest features. This is also a good time to check for carrier promotions that might have carried over or been refreshed from the holiday season.

Worst Times to Buy an iPhone

Just as there are good times, there are also times when you should definitely hold off on buying an iPhone if you want to get the most value for your money.

• July, August, and Early September: This is the “danger zone.” Apple is just weeks or a couple of months away from announcing new models. If you buy an iPhone during this period, you’ll likely pay full price for a device that’s about to be superseded, meaning its value will drop almost immediately after the new ones are unveiled. You’d be kicking yourself a few weeks later when the same phone, or even a newer one, is available for less or with better deals.

Specific iPhone Models: When to Consider Them

It’s not just when to buy, but which iPhone to buy that matters. When to Buy GAP Insurance: Protecting Your Ride (and Wallet!)

When to Buy iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max

The iPhone 16 lineup including the 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max was released in September 2024. Given that the iPhone 17 series is expected in September 2025, buying an iPhone 16 right now early September 2025 is not ideal if you want the best value for a new iPhone 16.

• If you want a new iPhone 16: Wait until the iPhone 17 is officially announced and released in mid-September 2025. You’ll likely see official price drops from Apple and aggressive deals from carriers and retailers trying to clear their iPhone 16 stock.
• If you need a Pro model: The iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max offer advanced camera systems, better displays, and more powerful chips. Look for carrier deals with trade-ins right after the iPhone 17 launches. Many carriers are currently offering significant credits up to $1000 on the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max with eligible trade-ins and unlimited plans.

When to Buy iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max

The iPhone 17 series is anticipated to be announced on September 9, 2025, with pre-orders on September 12 and the release on September 19.

• When to buy: If you want to be an early adopter and get the latest technology, the pre-order period and the first few weeks after the September 19 release date are your window. This is when you can leverage those strong carrier trade-in offers that essentially subsidize the cost of the brand-new device.
• What to expect: Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Rumors suggest the iPhone 17 might finally get a 120Hz display, bringing a smoother experience to the base model. The Pro models will likely boast even more advanced features, potentially with LTPO display panels for adaptive refresh rates.

When to Buy iPhone 15

The iPhone 15 series was released in September 2023. It saw price drops when the iPhone 16 launched in 2024.

• When to buy: Now September 2025 is a decent time to consider an iPhone 15 if you find a good deal. It’s two generations old, meaning its price has already depreciated considerably. You can often find refurbished iPhone 15 models at good prices, especially during sales like Prime Day. Retailers like Apple still offer trade-in discounts on the iPhone 15, sometimes up to $650 off with an eligible device.
• Why it’s still good: The iPhone 15 introduced features like USB-C and Dynamic Island on the base models, along with a capable 48MP main camera. It’s still a very capable phone for most users.

When to Buy iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro

The iPhone 14 series came out in September 2022.

• When to buy: Look for clearance sales or carrier deals, especially around Black Friday, Prime Day, and other major sales events. You can often find the iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Plus for significantly reduced prices, sometimes under $500, especially if you’re willing to commit to a carrier plan.
• Consider: The iPhone 14 series is still a solid performer, especially the Pro models with their Dynamic Island and upgraded cameras. If you’re coming from a much older iPhone like an iPhone X or 11, the iPhone 14 can be a big upgrade without breaking the bank.

When to Buy iPhone 13, iPhone 12, or iPhone SE

These older models offer excellent value for those on a tighter budget or who simply don’t need the latest bells and whistles. Your Ultimate Guide: When to Buy ETFs for Smart Investing

• When to buy: These are consistently available at lower prices, particularly from third-party retailers, used phone markets, and refurbished programs like Amazon Renewed. Sales events like Black Friday and Prime Day are fantastic for finding these models at their lowest. You might even find an iPhone 12 for under $200 in renewed condition.
• Consider: An iPhone 13 or 12 still delivers a smooth iOS experience, good cameras, and regular software updates. The iPhone SE 3rd Gen, released March 2022 is Apple’s most affordable new iPhone, offering a classic design with a modern chip, and is a great entry point into the Apple ecosystem. The iPhone 16e, released in February 2025, is a more recent budget-friendly option worth considering.

Buying an iPhone in India

If you’re in India, the timing of your iPhone purchase can be quite different due to local festivals and sales events.

• Festive Seasons: The absolute best time to buy an iPhone in India is during major festive seasons like Durga Puja, Diwali, and Christmas generally October to December. Retailers and online platforms offer huge discounts during these times.
• Online Sales Events: Keep an eye out for Flipkart’s “Big Billion Days” and Amazon’s “Great Indian Festival.” These sales often coincide with the festive season and bring significant price drops, often combined with additional bank card offers.
• Post-Launch Price Drops: Similar to global trends, when new iPhones like the iPhone 17 launch in September, the prices of the previous generation iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus tend to drop, sometimes by around ₹10,000. If you combine this natural price drop with festive sales, you can get incredible deals. For instance, the iPhone 16e recently received an ~₹11,000 discount in India ahead of the iPhone 17 launch, making it an attractive option around the ₹50,000 mark.

Other Ways to Save Money When Buying an iPhone

Even outside of major sales, there are smart strategies to get a better deal on your next iPhone.

1. Carrier Deals

Carriers are always competing for new customers and often offer fantastic incentives. When to Buy Disneyland Tickets: Your Ultimate Guide

• Trade-ins: As mentioned, trading in your old phone can get you hundreds of dollars in credit towards a new iPhone, especially if you’re signing up for a new plan or upgrading to an unlimited one. Most major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Boost Mobile offer up to $1000 in credits for eligible trade-ins.
• New Line Activations: Sometimes, you can get a “free” iPhone or a deeply discounted one just by activating a new line of service.
• Bundle Deals: Keep an eye out for bundles that include other Apple products, like an Apple Watch or AirPods, potentially saving you money on multiple devices.

2. Refurbished iPhones

Don’t shy away from refurbished! These aren’t just “used” phones. they’re often professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned to like-new condition.

• Apple Certified Refurbished: Apple’s own refurbished store sells devices with a one-year warranty, just like new products, and they often look indistinguishable from new ones.
• Third-Party Certified Refurbished: Retailers like Amazon through their Amazon Renewed program, Back Market, and other reputable sellers offer certified refurbished iPhones. These often come with good return policies and warranties. You can save a significant amount, sometimes over 20-30% compared to new prices.

3. Buying Unlocked

An unlocked iPhone gives you the freedom to choose any carrier and switch whenever you like. While they might cost more upfront, they save you from being tied to a long contract and potentially expensive monthly plans. You can find many unlocked iPhones on platforms like Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the iPhone 17 expected to be released?

Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 17 series on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, with pre-orders beginning Friday, September 12, and the official release date being Friday, September 19, 2025.

Do iPhone prices drop when a new model comes out?

Yes, absolutely! When a new iPhone model is released in September, the prices of the previous generation typically drop. Apple usually cuts the price of the one-year-old model by $100-$200, and retailers and carriers often offer even steeper discounts or enhanced trade-in deals to clear out stock. The Ultimate Guide: When to Buy Christmas Flights for the Savvy Traveler

Is it better to buy an iPhone on Black Friday or Prime Day?

Both Black Friday late November and Amazon Prime Day mid-July are excellent times for iPhone deals. Black Friday might offer slightly more widespread discounts from various retailers and carriers, including “free” phones with plans. Prime Day is often great for unlocked and professionally refurbished iPhones, especially through Amazon Renewed. It often comes down to what specific model you’re looking for and whether you prefer new, unlocked, or refurbished options.

Should I buy the current iPhone model right before a new one is announced?

No, this is generally the worst time to buy. If you purchase an iPhone in July, August, or early September, you’ll likely pay full price for a device whose value will immediately drop once the new models are announced and released. Waiting just a few weeks can save you significant money or get you a newer model for a similar price.

What is the best time to buy an iPhone in India?

In India, the best time to buy an iPhone is during the major festive seasons like Durga Puja and Diwali typically October to December, and during large online sales events like Flipkart’s “Big Billion Days” and Amazon’s “Great Indian Festival.” These periods offer the deepest discounts, often combined with bank card offers.

Are refurbished iPhones worth buying?

Yes, absolutely! Professionally refurbished iPhones, especially those certified by Apple or reputable third-party programs like Amazon Renewed Premium, can be a fantastic way to save money. They undergo thorough inspection, testing, and cleaning, often come with warranties, and look and perform like new, but at a significantly lower price point. When to Buy Broadway Tickets: Your Ultimate Guide to Scoring the Best Seats and Deals