Apple mulling iphone 18 plus return amid air sales woes
Apple could be considering a surprising comeback for the iPhone 18 Plus, according to a new report from analyst Tim Long. This potential move follows disappointing sales of the iPhoneair, suggesting the company may be revisiting previously abandoned models.
Iphone 18e and potential plus model on the horizon
Long, citing sources within Apple's supply chain, suggests the company plans to launch two devices alongside the base iPhone 18 in March next year: a lower-end iPhone 18e and either an iPhone 18 Plus or an iPhone Air 2. This marks the first time an iPhone 18 Plus has been mentioned publicly, sparking speculation about Apple’s strategy.
The potential shift is particularly noteworthy given the underperformance of the iPhone mini and iPhone Plus models in previous years. The iPhone 14 Plus, 15 Plus, and 16 Plus have seen modest sales, a stark contrast to the failure of their smaller siblings.
The timing also aligns with a possible launch of the iPhone Fold in December, preceding the expected iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September. This schedule echoes the launch strategy of the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, which debuted before the iPhone X in 2017.
However, the prospect of an iPhone 18 Plus isn’t without its skeptics. Some reports indicate the iPhone Air’s sales were even weaker than the iPhone 16 Plus, and whispers suggest the Air might be a sporadic release, similar to the iPhone SE. The chances of Apple reviving the Plus moniker, given its past struggles, appear slim.
The decision to launch a lower-priced iPhone 18e suggests Apple is responding to market pressures. Whether the Plus model will resonate with consumers remains to be seen. But the company's willingness to reconsider a previously shelved device speaks volumes about its current challenges.
The move highlights Apple’s ongoing struggle to find the right balance between premium flagships and more affordable options. The company's focus on diversification may well dictate its future product lineup.