Why Do People Still Say ‘Apple is Expensive’ When Google, Samsung, and Huawei Are Not Far Behind?
Introduction
The perception of Apple's iPhone being too expensive compared to other modern smartphones has been a long-standing debate. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that such claims often overlook critical factors that set the iPhone apart in terms of performance, quality, and long-term value.
Why Apple iPhones Are Often More Expensive
According to market data, in 2018, the average selling price of an iPhone was $800, which was significantly higher than that of Samsung and Huawei models, which sold for $254 and $205, respectively. This disparity makes it appear as though Apple's products are more expensive, but this comparison is far from straightforward.
Market Realities
The $254 and $205 figures do not represent the cost of the flagship models from these companies but rather their mid-range lineups. When looking at top-tier models, the prices and performance gap widens.
Price Points of Top-End Models
The Samsung Galaxy S10 and Huawei P30 cost nearly three times as much as a mid-range iPhone. Even so, the iPhone Xs, one of the entry-level models, still retails at $999, underscoring the perception disparity. It is important to note that the market share of expensive devices skews the comparison, and Apple's market share of high-end phones is actually smaller than one might think.
Why Apple iPhones Are the Best Value
A key factor often overlooked is that Apple's flagship models (like the Xs, for instance) deliver superior performance compared to their Android counterparts. The A12 Bionic chip, for example, outperforms both the Snapdragon and Kirin chips that power Samsung and Huawei devices. Additionally, Apple's hardware and software synergy ensures a seamless, efficient user experience that is unmatched by many Android smartphones.
Performance and Software Support
One of the standout features of the iPhone is its performance. A current iPhone user can easily outmatch a high-end Android device of similar price points. For instance, the iPhone Xs is significantly faster than both the Galaxy S10 and the P30, and the A12 Bionic chip is a clear testament to this. Furthermore, Apple provides up to five years of full support with regular security and feature updates, a colossal advantage that rarely echoes in the Android ecosystem. Samsung and Huawei, on the other hand, only provide up to two years of support, and even then, it is often infrequent and delayed.
Market Data and Consumer Choice
Consumers overwhelmingly choose Apple's iPhones over comparably priced Android options. Less than one-twelfth of all phones sold in 2018 were high-end iPhones priced over $800, and less than one-fiftieth were top-end Android phones at the same price point. This suggests that the demand for high-quality, well-supported devices like the iPhone far outweighs the number of such devices sold.
Conclusion
The perception that Apple's iPhones are overpriced often stems from a comparison of mid-range Android phones with high-end iPhones. When examining the actual market dynamics and performance, it becomes clear that Apple offers exceptional value for money, superior performance, and unparalleled support. The flagship market is where Apple excels, with the remaining market segments being predominantly held by mid-range devices from Samsung and Huawei. As the market continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether other brands will be able to match the quality and support standards set by Apple in the high-end segment.