What is going on
Apple’s next iPhone release is likely in a month’s time, making it hard to recommend a new iPhone purchase.
Why it matters
Customers who can wait a few weeks can take advantage of access to the next iPhone or discounts that are likely to come on current iPhone models.
What’s next
Apple usually announces new iPhones in September and releases them shortly after.
September is just around the corner, which probably means Apple is too rumored iPhone 14 line. In most cases, Apple usually announces its new wave of iPhone models in September and releases them shortly after. But even if you don’t care about having the latest iPhone, there are good reasons to be patient before getting a iPhone 13 or 13 Pro.
Apple’s iPhone 14 is likely to be launched soon
If Apple maintains its current pattern, it will likely iPhone 14 in the first half of September next to iOS 16 and start it in the second half. For example, Apple introduced the iPhone 13 on September 14 before it hit stores on September 24. The timing was similar for the iPhone 11, iPhone 8 and earlier models.
That said, there have been some exceptions. The iPhone 12 and 12 Pro launched in October 2020, while the 12 Mini and 12 Pro Max became available in November of the same year. The iPhone X also launched in November 2017.
As for what to expect from the iPhone 14, rumors indicate that the Pro model could get an upgrade 48-megapixel main camera and a new notch-free look. Rumor has it that Apple will also release releases a new bigger size from the standard iPhone 14.
Read a more in-depth breakdown of when we think the iPhone 14 will launch based on Apple’s history here.
The next iPhone line is likely to arrive when iOS 16 gets a wide release.
Patrick Holland/CNET
Older iPhones may be cheaper
Don’t mind having the latest iPhone? You still have to wait. Apple usually lowers the prices of previous iPhone models when new models are introduced, as it does with the iPhone 12 last year. For example, the 64GB iPhone 12 got a price cut of $700 from $800 after the iPhone 13 was announced. The iPhone 11 dropped to $500 in 2021.
This year’s iPhone launch could be even better for those who prefer to save money on an older model. If Apple follows the pattern of 2021, it will likely iPhone 12 and 12 Mini in the lineup and lower the price of the Mini to $500. That’s important because it would make the iPhone 12 Mini one of the cheapest 5G iPhones out there. yes the iPhone SE is cheaper at $430 and also supports 5G. However, it also comes with a much smaller screen than Apple’s other phones, has only one main camera (most new phones have two), and lacks Face ID.
While 5G isn’t a necessity, it’s a good idea to make sure your next phone has 5G if you plan on keeping it for the next three years as those networks continue to evolve. Read more about whether it’s okay to buy a non-5G phone in 2022 here.
If you really need an iPhone right now
Not everyone is able to wait. If you really need a new iPhone right now and want to save a few bucks, consider buying a refurbished iPhone. Apple offers refurbished models with a one-year warranty on its website. Apple says these previously owned devices will be inspected, cleaned and offer the option to extend customer service with an AppleCare subscription.
You can also check for refurbished models on websites like Gazelle and Amazon, which have their own disclosures about the device’s condition and terms of warranty.
If you’re having a hard time figuring out which iPhone is right for you, check out our guide.