*NEW* iPhone-mini...

[ASGR]

... is one way Apple can start to address it's loss of market share in the phone hand-set market. I've lot to get my hands on an iPhone with all it's superiorities but who's got $500, or wut ever, to spend on a phone in a 'this is good enough' world.

A cut down version could revitalise the market and make it more accessible to people on lower budgets without too many sacrifices or performance restrictions.

... or they're going to have to cut their prices for the main iPhone model!

 

[MonkeySee....]

... is one way Apple can start to address it's loss of market share in the phone hand-set market. I've lot to get my hands on an iPhone with all it's superiorities but who's got $500, or wut ever, to spend on a phone in a 'this is good enough' world.

A cut down version could revitalise the market and make it more accessible to people on lower budgets without too many sacrifices or performance restrictions.

... or they're going to have to cut their prices for the main iPhone model!

Why don't you get the iPhone on a contract if you can't afford one out right.

 

[justperry]

I don't even get it why they should have an iPhone Mini or a low cost one, the 3 GS is still sold here in Asia, it is quit a bit cheaper and does the job.

 

[ASGR]

There is an article in todays FT (June 3rd 2013) on the front page estimating that Apple's lead will be over-taken in the app market by Android within 3 months max. The Android handset market (900mn units) is already 50% larger than iOS (600mn units) and that difference is only going to get bigger.

In essence what Apple needs to do to keep it's first place position, whilst maintaining above average prices for it's apps, is to sell more units to attract and keep the developers happy that they will still be getting their revenues and sell the number of units they expect.

In reality that ain't gunna happen. More Android apps and units will be sold and Apple will have to try and minimise the damage. According to the report in the FT, that strategy is now showing signs of failing. The days of 'skimming the cream' are gone.

Oh and one way or the another, you'll end up paying $500 either way if you choose to pay it up-front or monthly! And Apple ain't going to to forward whilst relying on older technology.