Apple’s highly anticipated annual iPhone event is just around the corner, slated for September 9. As always, the tech giant is expected to unveil its latest iPhone lineup, with the iPhone 16 series taking centre stage. Alongside the new iPhones, we are also expecting the launch of next-generation AirPods, new Apple Watch models, and perhaps even a few surprises. However, the introduction of new-generation Apple products also means that the Cupertino giant will be bidding farewell to its older devices. Following the tradition Apple has established, it seems the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are on the chopping block this year.
In recent years, Apple has made it a tradition to discontinue its premium flagship iPhones just a year after their introduction. This practice began with the launch of the iPhone XS and XR in 2018. With the launch of iPhone 15, Apple discontinued the iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max. This year, it seems to be the turn of the iPhone 15 Pro models. Despite being Apple’s first Pro iPhones with a titanium build and boasting advanced features, the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max are expected to be phased out shortly after the iPhone 16’s debut.
To push its new generation of phones, Apple will likely say its last goodbye to its first Pro models with a titanium frame, which offers a lighter and more durable build compared to their stainless steel predecessors. The iPhone 15 Pro models also introduced a fresh colour palette, including Blue Titanium, which received quite a positive response from users. However, with the iPhone 16 Pro expected to feature larger displays, an AI-focused A18 Pro chip, and new design elements, the iPhone 15 Pro will be removed to make way for the new. It’s not that the iPhone 15 Pro lineup is not powerful, but it’s certainly not as powerful as the new gen iPhone 16 Pro would be.
You will see iPhone 15 Pro for a few months
Although it is important to note that after the launch of the iPhone 16 Pro, the iPhone 15 Pro models won’t disappear overnight. Apple will continue to provide software updates and support for these devices, ensuring they remain functional and secure for years to come. However, as we saw when Apple removed the product page of the iPhone 14 Pro with the launch of the iPhone 15, we might see the same plans with the iPhone 15 Pro.
Meanwhile, users will still be able to purchase these products from third-party retailers, e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, and brick-and-mortar stores until their existing stocks are depleted. This means that for those still interested in owning an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, there will be opportunities to purchase them at potentially reduced prices.
Why Apple discontinues iPhones
But why does Apple discontinue its powerful new devices that are just one year old? Apple’s plans to discontinue older gen products is said to be driven by a combination of product differentiation and market positioning. By removing the previous year’s Pro models from its lineup, Apple encourages customers to opt for the latest and greatest devices or consider more budget-friendly options like the standard models, which usually remain available for a longer period.
More Apple products which will be discontinued
Along with the iPhone 15 Pro lineup, Apple is also expected to discontinue the iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 13, Apple Watch Series 9, Ultra 2, SE 2, AirPods 2, AirPods 3, iPad mini 6, and iPad 10 from the shelves.