The prices of non-PTA and PTA approved iPhone 16 series models have reached their lowest levels in Pakistan since their global launch, following Apple’s recent announcement of the iPhone 17.
The Cupertino based tech giant unveiled the new lineup on September 9, with availability set for September 19, prompting a significant price drop for the iPhone 16 series, particularly for higher end variants.
This decline in prices us attributed to two main factors. The release of the iPhone 17 has disminished demand for last year’s models, while Apple has kept the starting prices of the new series nearly identical to those of the iPhone 16 launch, contrary to expectations of a substantial price increase.
With minimal differences between the international launch prices of iPhone 16 and iPhone 17, many Apple enthusiasts see little incentive to purchase an older model when a newer one is available for similar cost.
Despite the lack of official sales or manufacturing of iPhones in Pakistan, the devices remain a status symbol for many affluent buyers. Local mobile dealers and distributors import these products for sale in markets nationwide.
A survey conducted across major mobile markets in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad and Rawalpindi revealed that the iPhone 16 series has experienced some of its steepest price cuts to date, especially for PTA approved variants, which are favoured due to having cleared import duties and taxes.
Among these models of the iPhone 16 series, have also significantly decreased in price, with the 128 GB version now available for approximately Rs297,000 and the 256GB variant for as low as Rs336,000.
Dealers believe this is an excellent opportunity for buyers to purchase a PTA-approved iPhone 16, as prices have dropped to their lowest since September 2024.
However, while the international launch prices of the iPhone 17 series remains stable, local shopkeepers anticipate that the new models will be priced significantly higher in Pakistan during their initial months.
This is due to the absence of an official Apple Store, limited initial availability and heavy import duties, which often leads to inflated prices until distributors begin importing PTA approved stock.
A mobile phone shop owner in Rawalpindi indicated that non-PTA iPhone 17 could reach prices as high as Rs700,000 shortly after their release, particularly for the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the newly introduced iPhone 17 Air.
Many seasoned iPhone users in Pakistan are aware of this pricing trend and opt to wait several months before purchasing new models. One user noted that iPhone prices typically remain high from September to February, gradually decreasing over time. He stated, “Shopkeepers know they can charge premium prices at launch because of the high demand”.
For now, the significant price reductions in the iPhone 16 series create an opportunity for buyers who want a premium Apple device without necessarily needing the latest model.
With the iPhone 17 on the horizon and its prices expected to stay elevated in the coming months, now may be the best time to acquire a PTA-approved iPhone 16 at a reasonable price in Pakistan.
