Apple Considering $50-$150 Rebate on iPhone?
Appleinsider reports that American Technology analyst Shaw Wu believes that Apple and AT&T are considering offering a $50-$150 rebate or subsidy on the upcoming Apple iPhone.
There had been some hints that Apple was previously not allowing the iPhone to be subsidized by the carrier. The argument goes that the subsidies devalue the hardware in the consumer's eyes.
"We are hearing rebates of $50-150 that will be offered by AT&T to lower the price points for iPhone (currently $499 for 4 GB and $599 for 8 GB) and to entice customers to sign longer term voice and data contracts," the analyst wrote. "From AT&T's perspective, a rebate is a great marketing tool and small sacrifice to make to entice a customer to sign up for 2-year voice and data cell phone plans that cost about $75-100 per month (before taxes and fees), meaning $1800-2400 in 'guaranteed' bi-annual revenue."
There had been some hints that Apple was previously not allowing the iPhone to be subsidized by the carrier. The argument goes that the subsidies devalue the hardware in the consumer's eyes.
Top Rated Comments
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63 months ago
I wasn't planning to get an iPhone. With a $100 or $150 rebate, then I'll bite. Hope this is true.
63 months ago
Well I don't think anybody will see this as bad news! Now we just gotta hope that when they come out in the UK we don't go getting ripped off :p
(yes, whining already)
Uber
(yes, whining already)
Uber
63 months ago
Why not just do as earlier rumors suggested and build the subsidy into the calling plan itself?
63 months ago
As much as I hate being tied down to a contract, it is really inevitable. I am glad that this rebate is something being considered. If you look at MOST phones, their prices are pretty ridiculously high, but there is ALWAYS a rebate from the carrier. Just look up the cost of Blackberrys before their rebates.
My only concern would be that signing up for the contract would also lock your phone or limit features.
My only concern would be that signing up for the contract would also lock your phone or limit features.
63 months ago
I'll be buying one either way but a rebate is always nice, especially when it comes in the mail 2-4 months later. :)
63 months ago
I'll prolly get an iPhone either way. I'll be due for a new phone in the next 6 months to a year. But I'll gladly give up a rebate for some new Macs today. Or at least soon anyway. BTW, Octo-cores don't really count unless you have more money than you know what to do with.
63 months ago
Good news for Americans.
I second UberMac. iPhone in the price range of £200-£300 is acceptable by me. :)
I second UberMac. iPhone in the price range of £200-£300 is acceptable by me. :)
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