Now that the new iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus have been revealed, the point of discussion has shifted to price and schedule. In India, where Apple has a noticeable presence, buyers will spend an additional $250 (roughly Rs 17,000) to flaunt the device.
The iPhone 7 starts at a price tag of $649 in the US. In India, Apple has set a maximum retail price of about Rs 60,000 ($900).
In India, the phones will be available from October 7 and the price starts at Rs 60,000
According to The Wall Street Journal, taxes and duties are levied on the maximum retail price which makes it a costly device.
Depreciation of Indian rupee as well could be a major contributor to the exorbitant price. To add to that is Apple’s third-party distribution network which helps the company reach the masses.
WSJ notes the comparatively high price of the new device underscores challenges the Cupertino-based company faces in the world’s second most populous country. “It is attempting to sell its high-end devices in a nation where most consumers can only afford smartphones that cost less than $150.”
Apple on Wednesday unveiled the next generation of iPhones at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, San Francisco. The iPhone 7 and 7 Plus is powered with an all-new A10 Fusion SoC and will run the upcoming iOS 10 firmware.
The new iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus will hit Indian stores on October 7. The tech giant, meanwhile could discontinue iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. Apple’s India website currently lists iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, followed by iPhone 6s and 6s Plus.