KGI: Apple Will Discontinue Original iPhone X When Next-Generation Model Arrives
According to a new report from KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple will discontinue the first-generation iPhone X when the second-generation model launches later this year, instead of making them available at a cheaper price.
Kuo said that the lower prices for the first-generation iPhone X would affect the sales of Apple’s mid-range devices. Apple will reportedly launch a mid-range 6.1-inch iPhone with FaceID and an LED display for a price between $650 and $750. In a research note, Kuo said:
iPhone X would hurt product brand value & lineup of 2H18 new models if it continues to sell at a lower price after 2H18 new models launch: Lowering iPhone X’s price after the 2H18 new models launch would be a negative to product brand value given 3D sensing and OLED display are features of the new high-price model. Additionally, to sell iPhone X at a lower price may have a negative impact on shipments of the new 6.1″ LCD iPhone in 2H18. Thus, we estimate iPhone X will reach end-of-life (EOL) around the middle of 2018.
If the report is accurate, Apple’s 2018 smartphone lineup will consist of a new 5.8-inch iPhone X, a larger 6.5-inch iPhone X Plus, and a mid-range 6.1-inch iPhone.
[via MacRumors]