The Ultimate iPhone Upgrade: Apple’s New Trio Takes Over Vietnam

In a recent quiet move, Apple has discontinued the distribution of three iPhone models: the iPhone 11, iPhone 12, and iPhone 14 Plus in Vietnam. These devices, belonging to older generations, once played a crucial role in expanding the customer base with their accessible price points. However, as of now, they have all vanished from the official shelves.

While the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 were discontinued a few years ago, they continued to be sold in high-demand markets, including Vietnam. This group of products witnessed strong sales, especially in the entry-level and lower mid-range segments. With prices hovering below 12 million VND, the duo became the top choice for users seeking an affordable official iPhone experience.

However, at present, major domestic retail systems have ceased importing and displaying the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12. This move is seen as a step to make way for newer models and streamline Apple’s increasingly elongated product lineup. With the disappearance of these two models, the iPhone 13 naturally becomes the most affordable official iPhone in the market, with a retail price of around 11.3 million VND for the 128GB variant.

Unlike the iPhone 11 and 12, which enjoyed extended lifespans, the iPhone 14 Plus met an early demise. This device is believed to have been discontinued since February, right after Apple unveiled the iPhone 16 series. Despite belonging to a newer generation and boasting a larger display and superior battery life, the iPhone 14 Plus failed to capture the interest of Vietnamese users. Its sales remained low, accounting for only a small fraction of the total iPhone 14 sales.

The early exit of the iPhone 14 Plus reflects a market reality: Vietnamese consumers are no longer as keen on the Plus-sized iPhones. Instead, the trend leans towards more compact devices or higher-end models with significant upgrades. With the discontinuation of the iPhone 14 Plus, the iPhone 15 Plus emerges as the direct replacement, offering a similar design but with enhanced specifications and camera performance. This model is currently priced at approximately 19 million VND for the 128GB version.

For many years, Apple maintained a strategy of prolonging the lifespan of older iPhone models, coupled with aggressive price cuts to attract entry-level consumers. This strategy proved effective, especially in the Vietnamese market, where price sensitivity is prominent among tech buyers. According to retail systems, after the price adjustments in March, sales of older iPhones (excluding the iPhone 16 series) surged by 70%, achieving an impressive 80% year-on-year growth.

Nevertheless, the discontinuation of these three older iPhone models indicates a tightening of Apple’s product strategy in Vietnam. By focusing on better-selling models and reducing generational overlap, the company can optimize operations and make it easier for consumers to choose devices that align with their needs and budgets.