The launch of Apple's latest flagship, the iPhone 16 series at its Glowtime Event, has created a global buzz, with enthusiasts eagerly anticipating its availability. The new iPhone 16 series will be available for pre-booking from September 13 at 5:30 P.M. IST and will appear at stores on September 20th.
Welcome to the new era of iPhone!
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) September 9, 2024
Built for Apple Intelligence, the iPhone 16 lineup delivers a powerful, personal, and private experience right at your fingertips. And with the new Camera Control, you’ll never miss a moment. pic.twitter.com/zBsx9xOBl1
The base variants- iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are priced similarly to last year; the pro models this year come with a slightly lower price tag in India. However, one noticeable trend is the varying price points across different countries. While India is a significant market for Apple, the iPhone 16 is reportedly cheaper in several other nations.
Top 11 countries Where the iPhone 16 is Cheaper than India
| Country | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16 Plus | iPhone 16 Pro | iPhone 16 Pro Max |
| India | Rs 79,900 | Rs 89,900 | Rs 1,19,900 | Rs 1,44,900 |
| US | $799 | $899 | $999 | $1,199 |
| Converted to INR | Rs 69,512 | Rs 78,212 | Rs 86,912 | Rs 1,04,312 |
| UK | £799 | £899 | £999 | £1,199 |
| Converted to INR | Rs 93,961 | Rs 1,05,721 | Rs 1,17,481 | Rs 1,41,001 |
| Dubai (UAE) | AED 3,399 | AED 3,799 | AED 4,299 | AED 5,099 |
| Converted to INR | Rs 80,794 | Rs 90,302 | Rs 1,02,187 | Rs 1,21,203 |
| China Mainland | RMB 5,999 | RMB 6,999 | RMB 7,999 | RMB 9,999 |
| Converted to INR | Rs 72,621 | Rs 84,727 | Rs 96,832 | Rs 1,21,043 |
| Hong Kong | HK$ 6,899 | HK$ 7,699 | HK$ 8,599 | HK$ 10,199 |
| Converted to INR | Rs 76,919 | Rs 85,839 | Rs 95,873 | Rs 1,13,712 |
| Vietnam | VND 22,999,000 | VND 25,999,000 | VND 28,999,000 | VND 34,999,000 |
| Converted to INR | Rs 76,007 | Rs 85,922 | Rs 95,836 | Rs 1,15,665 |
| Thailand | ฿ 29,900 | ฿ 34,900 | ฿ 39,900 | ฿ 48,900 |
| Converted to INR | Rs 79,981 | Rs 93,355 | Rs 1,06,730 | Rs 1,30,805 |
| Japan | 124,800 Yen | 139,800 Yen | 159,800 Yen | 189,800 Yen |
| Converted to INR | Rs 73,434 | Rs 82,260 | Rs 94,028 | Rs 1,11,680 |
| Australia | A$1,399 | A$1,599 | A$1,799 | A$2,149 |
| Converted to INR | Rs 78,919 | Rs 90,202 | Rs 1,01,484 | Rs 1,21,228 |
| Canada | $1,129 | $1,279 | $1,449 | $1,749 |
| Converted to INR | Rs 71,039 | Rs 80,478 | Rs 91,175 | Rs 1,10,051 |
| Singapore | S$1,299 | S$1,399 | S$1,599 | S$1,899 |
| Converted to INR | Rs 76, 598 | Rs 94,856 | Rs 1,08,484 | Rs 1, 28, 757 |
Note: The Prices Converted to INR are subject to change daily depending on the value of the Indian Rupee. These prices are calculated as of August 2025
Why is the iPhone 16 More Expensive in India?
Several factors contribute to the iPhone’s higher price in India.
- Import Duties: India imposes substantial import duties on electronics, particularly on premium products like the iPhone. As a result, Apple passes these costs on to the consumer.
- GST (Goods and Services Tax): The GST on mobile phones in India is set at 18%, which significantly increases the final price for the consumer.
- Currency Exchange Rates: The strength of the Indian Rupee compared to the U.S. Dollar plays a role in price differences. A weaker Rupee results in higher costs when importing products priced in Dollars.
- Retailer Markups: While Apple has started opening its own stores in India, many consumers still purchase from third-party retailers, who add their own markups.
- Apple’s Market Positioning: In India, Apple is seen as a luxury brand. Apple tends to keep its pricing higher to maintain its premium image in the Indian market.
Things to Consider Before Buying iPhone 16 Abroad
Before planning a trip to these countries or asking loved ones to bring an iPhone 16 back from abroad, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Warranty Issues: Apple provides international warranties on some products, but there are exceptions. Ensure the iPhone model you purchase is covered globally.
- Currency Fluctuations: Exchange rates can fluctuate, potentially reducing your savings if you buy at a time when your currency is weak.
- Regional Differences: Certain features, like 5G bands or network compatibility, may vary by country. Be sure to check that the iPhone 16 variant you're buying will work seamlessly with Indian networks.
- Physical Sim Card Slot Availability: iPhones purchased in the US, including the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max, do not have a physical SIM card slot and only support eSIM.
- Network-Locked iPhones: Be aware that certain markets sell network-locked iPhones, which may not be compatible with Indian SIM cards.
In conclusion, buying the iPhone 16 abroad can be an excellent way to save money, especially in countries like the U.S., Japan, or Hong Kong, where prices are significantly lower than in India.
However, it’s essential to weigh the potential savings against factors like warranty coverage, customs duties, and compatibility issues. If done right, you could score a great deal on the latest Apple device without paying the hefty price tag that comes with buying it in India.
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