A new rumor is among us stating that Apple has plans to ditch the iPhone 3GS once the iPhone 5 is released. While they have let go of older models in the past, they may keep it around for a little while longer…
According to The Telegraph, the move would make the iPhone 4 free of charge on a 2 year contract, while the 4S will receive an 8GB model priced in the middle, as Apple did last year with the iPhone 4.
The Telegraph reports:
The new update will mean that the 8GB version of the iPhone 4 will be the entry-level iPhone, probably given away free on £20 per month contracts, as the 3GS is currently. Sources close to retailers also suggested that an 8GB version of the 4S could be introduced.
So let’s take a look at all this. When Apple released the iPad 2, they dropped the first iPad. When the new iPad launched, the kept the iPad 2 around. Last year when the iPhone 4S was released Apple kept the iPhone 3GS and 4.
If Apple were to keep the iPhone 3GS free this time around, they could price the iPhone 4 at $50, iPhone 4S for $100, and the iPhone 5 at $200.
Here’s my prediction (contract pricing):
- iPhone 3GS – FREE
- iPhone 4 – $50
- iPhone 4S (8GB) – $100
- iPhone 4S (16GB) – $150
- iPhone 5 – $200
Using this pricing format would ensure there’s an iPhone available for anyone. Having multiple price ranges will ensure that they continue to dominate the smartphone industry.
Now I could be wrong about this pricing prediction, but I think keeping the 3GS isn’t such a bad idea. Some people don’t even see the point in buying an iPhone 4/4S when the 3GS is cheaper.
They don’t care for the “better” features. They just want a good phone.
An iPhone.
Source: The Telegraph via MacRumors
The new update will mean that the 8GB version of the iPhone 4 will be the entry-level iPhone, probably given away free on £20 per month contracts, as the 3GS is currently. Sources close to retailers also suggested that an 8GB version of the 4S could be introduced.
