What is happening
Apple’s next iPhone release is likely a month away, making it a difficult time to recommend a new iPhone purchase.
Why it matters
Customers who can wait a few weeks can benefit from either getting access to the next iPhone or discounts that are likely to come for current iPhone models.
What next
Apple usually announces new iPhones in September and releases them shortly after.
September is right around the corner, which probably means so is Apple’s rumored iPhone 14 lineup. In most cases, Apple usually announces its new wave of iPhone models in September and releases them shortly after. But even if you don’t care about having the latest iPhone, there are good reasons to be patient before splurging on the iPhone 13 or 13 Pro.
Apple’s iPhone 14 is likely to be released soon
If Apple keeps its current model, it is likely to announce the iPhone 14 in the first half of September along with iOS 16 and release it in the second half. For example, Apple debuted the iPhone 13 on September 14 before hitting stores on September 24. The timing was similar for the iPhone 11, iPhone 8 and earlier models.
However, there are some exceptions. The iPhone 12 and 12 Pro launched in October 2020, while the 12 Mini and 12 Pro Max became available in November of that year. The iPhone X also launched in November 2017.
As for what to expect from the iPhone 14, rumors suggest that the Pro model could have an improved 48-megapixel primary camera and a new notch-less design. Apple is also rumored to release 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 line will likely arrive when iOS 16 gets a wide release.
Patrick Holland/CNET
Older iPhones may get cheaper
Don’t care about having the latest iPhone? You still have to wait. Apple usually cuts the prices of previous iPhone models when it introduces new models, just like it did with the iPhone 12 last year. The 64GB iPhone 12, for example, got a price cut to $700 from $800 after the iPhone 13 was announced. Meanwhile, the iPhone 11 dropped to $500 in 2021.
This year’s iPhone lineup could be even better for those who prefer to save money for an older model. If Apple follows the 2021 model, it will likely keep the iPhone 12 and 12 Mini in its lineup and drop the price of the Mini to $500. This is important because it will make the iPhone 12 Mini one of the cheapest 5G iPhones available. Yes, the iPhone SE is $430 cheaper and also supports 5G. However, it also comes with a much smaller screen than other Apple 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 for the next three years as these networks continue to evolve. You can read more about whether it’s okay to buy a phone without 5G in 2022 here.
If you really need an iPhone right now
Not everyone can 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 that come with a one-year warranty. Apple says these previous devices have been checked, cleaned and include an 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 a hard time figuring out which iPhone is right for you, check out our guide.
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