As expected, some models of iPhones are being sold at a discount in China at the main Ma dealers in the country, according to the Financial Times. Apple, on the other hand, has not changed prices for any device in its online store.
Dealers like JD and Suning reduced the prices of iPhones 8, 8 Plus and XR by about 20%. More specifically, Suning is selling the 128GB iPhone XR for CN5,800 ($ 858), about 17% cheaper ($ 178) than on Apple's website. JD, China's largest electronics retailer, offers the same model for CN6,100 (approximately $ 900).
In addition to Ma's dealer network, some Chinese trade sites, such as the Pinduoduo, they are also offering huge discounts on all the latest models. THE Tmall, from giant Alibaba, has even promised to subsidize the iPhones XS and XS Max at CN1,500 (about $ 220).
According to research director at Wedbush Securities, Daniel Ives, the alleged reasons for the reduction in sales of new iPhones in China, such as the commercial war between the country and the USA, are nothing more than Apple's distractions and excuses. According to him, the company's problems are, in fact, the low demand and the price totally inconsistent with the Chinese market, which is quite competitive.
It is not clear whether the drop in prices was something encouraged by Apple or the resellers themselves. As we mentioned, Chinese suppliers received the company's “permission” to offer discounts on models of iPhones; however, Canalys analyst Yiting Guan said the reductions may be linked to the retail market.
The fact that rarely great discounts are offered when purchasing iPhones, especially at the beginning of the year, when the latest models are still the most emblematic. However, with the Chinese New Year approaching, it is likely that stores have decided to advance the shopping season to run after the losses of the past few months.
via Cult of Mac
