As Apple's highly anticipated iPhone 16 launch approaches, owners of older iPhone models face a critical decision: sell now or risk losing significant value on their devices.
According to recent data from SellCell, a phone comparison platform, the trade-in value of older iPhones tends to drop sharply after Apple unveils its latest models. This year's announcement is expected on September 9th, with pre-orders likely starting September 13th and a release date of September 20th.
The Ticking Clock on iPhone Values
For those planning to upgrade, time is of the essence. SellCell's analysis reveals:
- Waiting too long could reduce your iPhone's value by up to 8.3%
- In the 28 days before a new release, older iPhones can lose up to $133 in value
- Two weeks prior to release, phones may see $104 in value evaporate
Last year, the 1TB iPhone 14 Pro Max saw its trade-in value plummet from $961 to $857 in just two weeks leading up to the iPhone 15 release.
Strategic Selling for Maximum Return
To maximize your return:
- Aim to sell your current iPhone by September 6th (two weeks before the expected release)
- Look for buyers offering 30-day price locks, allowing you to secure a good price while waiting for your new device
- Consider the trade-off between immediate sale and having a gap in phone ownership
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| Prepare for the upgrade: Selling your old iPhone before the new release is strategic for maximizing value |
iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence: New Upgrade Motivations
This year's upgrade cycle may see increased interest due to the introduction of Apple Intelligence, currently only available on iPhone 15 Pro models and the upcoming iPhone 16 series. The feature is expected to roll out more widely with iOS 18.1 in October.
iOS 18 Release Date Speculation
While Apple hasn't officially announced the iOS 18 release date, historical patterns suggest:
- iOS 18 will likely launch within a week of the September 9th event
- Monday, September 16th, is a probable release date
- An earlier release on Friday, September 13th, is possible but less likely due to the date's superstitious connotations
As the iPhone 16 launch approaches, those looking to upgrade face a delicate balance between maximizing their old device's value and securing the latest technology. With potentially significant financial implications, timing your sale could make a substantial difference in the overall cost of upgrading to Apple's newest offerings.