As Apple’s “low-cost” iPhone model shifts from rumor to reality, speculation abounds on just how affordable the handset will be. While targeting the $99 price point in the US is great for kids and first-time smartphone buyers, many have seen a budget iPhone as a prime opportunity for Apple to grab consumers in emerging markets. According to Tong Zixian, CEO of Apple manufacturing partner Pegatron, the price point might still be beyond the reach of developing nations.
Apple has been losing sales in markets like China and India as other manufacturers, particularly those deploying Google’s free Android platform, continue to offer dirt cheap devices. Apple hasn’t been able to compete on price in the past, and it sounds like their latest effort to offer a scaled-back iPhone will miss the mark again.
It’s a tough line to ride for a company that has always favored quality over quantity. But while Apple is doing just fine focusing on more developed economies like the US, it’s still vital that the company continue to make inroads in emerging markets, lest they miss out.
[via BGR]
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