What is happening
Apple’s next iPhone release is likely within a month, making it a difficult time to recommend a new iPhone purchase.
why does it matter
Customers who can wait a few weeks can benefit from getting access to the next iPhone or discounts that are likely to come on current iPhone models.
What follows
Apple usually announces new iPhones in September and releases them soon after.
September is right around the corner, which probably means Apple’s iPhone 14 lineup is too. In most cases, Apple usually announces its new wave of iPhone models in September and releases them soon after. But even if you don’t mind getting the newest iPhone, there are good reasons to be patient before splurging on an iPhone 13 or 13 Pro.
Apple’s iPhone 14 is likely to launch soon
If Apple maintains its current pattern, it will likely announce the iPhone 14 in the first half of September along with iOS 16 and launch it in the second half. For example, Apple debuted the iPhone 13 on September 14 before making it available in stores on September 24. The timing was similar for the iPhone 11, iPhone 8 and earlier models.
That said, there have been some exceptions. The iPhone 12 and 12 Pro were released in October 2020, while the 12 Mini and 12 Pro Max were available in November of that same year. The iPhone X was also launched in November 2017.
As for what to expect from the iPhone 14, rumors indicate that the Pro model could have an improved 48-megapixel main camera and a new notch-less look. Apple is also rumored to launch a new, larger size of the standard iPhone 14.
Read a more in-depth analysis of when we think the iPhone 14 will launch based on Apple’s history here.
The next iPhone lineup will likely arrive when iOS 16 gets a wide release.
Patrick Holland/CNET
Older iPhones can be cheaper
Don’t mind having the newest iPhone? You should still wait. Apple usually cuts the prices of older iPhone models when it introduces new models, just like it did with the iPhone 12 last year. The 64GB iPhone 12, for example, saw its price drop to $700 from $800 after the iPhone 13 was announced. The iPhone 11, meanwhile, dropped to $500 in 2021.
This year’s iPhone launch could be even better for those who would rather save money on an older model. If Apple follows the 2021 pattern, it will likely keep the iPhone 12 and 12 Mini in its lineup and drop the price of the Mini to $500. That’s significant, because it would make the iPhone 12 Mini one of the cheapest 5G iPhones available. Yes, the iPhone SE is cheaper at $430 and also supports 5G. However, it also comes with a much smaller screen than Apple’s other phones, has only one main camera (most new phones have two), and lacks Face ID.
While 5G isn’t a necessity, it’s a good idea to make sure your next phone has 5G if you plan to keep it around for the next three years as these networks continue to develop. You can read more about whether it’s okay to buy a non-5G phone in 2022 here.
If you really need an iPhone right now
Not everyone is in a position to wait. If you really need a new iPhone right now and want to save a few bucks, consider buying a refurbished iPhone. Apple offers refurbished models on its website with a one-year warranty. Apple says these pre-owned devices are inspected, cleaned and include the option to extend customer service with an AppleCare plan.
You can also check for refurbished models on websites like Gazelle and Amazon, which will have their own disclosures about the device’s condition and warranty length terms.
If you’re having trouble figuring out which iPhone is right for you, check out our guide.
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