The current economic landscape is being affected by the uncertainty surrounding tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. While the long-term effects of these tariffs will take time to fully materialize, the short-term scenario remains turbulent.

A recent report indicates that the average selling price of iPhones is on the rise, but this increase is not directly linked to tariffs. According to the Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP), the average selling price of iPhones has risen to $971, which is an increase of $18 from $953 in the final quarter of 2024.

This escalation in price can be attributed to Apple’s decision to discontinue the SE line of budget-friendly iPhones and the previous iPhone 14 series. Following the launch of the iPhone 16 lineup, Apple phased out the iPhone 14 models, replacing the SE with the more expensive iPhone 16e.

As a result, consumers are finding themselves needing to spend more on their mobile devices. Interestingly, despite the rising average price, sales of the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models have not met expectations, which has tempered the average price increase.

This trend reveals that consumers are becoming more cautious about their spending, and the new features of the iPhone 16 series have not generated the anticipated excitement. Issues such as delays in the enhanced capabilities of Siri have further diminished interest.

Consequently, many buyers are turning to older-generation iPhones, with reports indicating a surge in the sales of used devices over new ones. Looking ahead to the upcoming launch of the iPhone 17 series, Apple may face supply chain challenges that could limit availability.

Speculations suggest that difficulties with the heat management system for the iPhone 17 may arise, leading consumers to either hold onto their current phones longer or choose to upgrade to earlier models.