Apple has increased the prices of older iPhone series models in India.
At a ceremony held yesterday at Apple Park headquarters in California, Apple introduced the iPhone 18 series and iPhone Duo models.
Meanwhile, Apple’s decision to raise the prices of older iPhone series models currently sold in India has come as a shock to customers.
The price of the iPhone 17 series, which was sold for Rs. 82,900, has been increased to Rs. 99,000; the iPhone Air model, which was sold for Rs. 1,19,900, has been increased to Rs. 1,49,000; and the iPhone 16, which was sold for Rs. 79,900, has been increased to Rs. 89,000.
Almost all older model iPhone prices have been increased by up to 20 percent compared with before.
Why is the price higher in India?
Generally, Apple’s iPhones, Watches, and AirPods have been sold in India at higher prices than in other countries.
For example, the price of the iPhone Duo model released yesterday is Rs. 1,67,900 in the United States and Rs. 1,97,200 in Dubai, according to Indian currency values. However, in India, it has been fixed at Rs. 2,99,000. It is being sold at a price nearly 20 to 22% higher.
The reason for this is the import duty and customs charges imposed by the central government.
If Apple assembles some of its base models domestically, its Pro and Max series are imported from abroad. The spare parts for models assembled domestically are imported from overseas. Since those parts are also taxed, there is no major change in the prices of the base models either.
A 22% customs duty is imposed on premium phones imported from foreign countries. In addition, cess, 18% GST, and similar taxes are also levied.
Compared with the United States and Dubai, this tax is much higher. For example, in Dubai, only a 5% cess is levied. There is no import duty.
Moreover, iPhone prices are determined with the US dollar as the benchmark. Therefore, when the value of the Indian rupee falls against the dollar, it is noteworthy that Apple sells at a higher price in order to maintain its profit margin.