As tech giant Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) gets ready to unveil the iPhone 15 tomorrow, investors and analysts will be looking forward to it. Over the past five trading sessions, AAPL stock has declined by 6% as investors remained concerned about the Chinese Government restricting the use of its iPhones.
While anticipation about the iPhone 15 is high, it’s the potential price changes that are generating a buzz. Apple typically releases new iPhones each fall, maintaining consistent prices while upgrading technology. However, this year, there’s speculation that Apple might increase prices for its Pro-level models by $100 to $200 compared to the current iPhone 14 Pro prices.
This move is significant as iPhones are already on the expensive side, with the cheapest iPhone 14 Pro starting at $999 and the most expensive iPhone 14 Pro Max configuration priced at $1,599. Analyst Brian White from Monness, Crespi, Hardt & Co. suggests that Apple may assume consumers are willing to pay more, especially for the popular Pro models, possibly due to economic inflation.
However, Erik Woodring of Morgan Stanley is less certain about a broad price hike, particularly in a smartphone market down by 11%. He expects the regular Pro model and base-level options to maintain their current prices. Concerns also linger about potential production delays for these new iPhones, as release dates remain uncertain.
Potential New Features that Could be Included in iPhone 15
The upcoming iPhone release appears to continue Apple’s trend of incremental updates rather than groundbreaking innovations. While the new models are expected to offer increased speed and potentially faster charging, a notable change could be a shift from Apple’s proprietary Lightning cable to the more universal USB-C connector.
The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus may incorporate elements such as the A16 chip, Dynamic Island, and a 48-megapixel camera, according to various reports. However, the Pro models could introduce a titanium frame, camera upgrades, and even a periscope-type telephoto lens for the Max versions.
Apple may also focus on visual appeal, with increased color differentiation between the Pro and regular series, potentially enticing users to opt for the higher-priced models. A dark blue option for the iPhone Pro line and a pink version for the base model are among the rumored pastel color choices.
In addition to iPhones, according to a Bloomberg report, Apple is expected to refresh its Apple Watch lineup, with improved processors and design continuity among the anticipated updates.
Analysts are cautiously optimistic about AAPL stock with a Moderate Buy consensus rating based on 22 Buys and eight Holds.
