The End of an Era: Apple Discontinues Sales of Older iPhone Models in Vietnam, Bidding Farewell to the Iconic iPhone 11’s “National” Legacy.

Apple Authorized Resellers (AAR) have confirmed that all three models have reached End of Life (EOL) status, indicating that the company has ceased production and supply. This has resulted in a near depletion of official stock, and retailers are scaling down their operations, focusing only on models from the iPhone 13 series onwards.

The iPhone 11 is the most notable device on the discontinued list. Once hailed as the “national iPhone” due to its accessibility, stable performance, and long-lasting battery, the iPhone 11 consistently topped sales charts in Vietnam for years. However, its 6.1-inch LCD screen and A13 Bionic chip have now been superseded by newer iPhones boasting OLED displays, more powerful chips, and longer software support.

Retailers have shared that prices for these three models are no longer fluctuating due to limited stock. FPT Shop observes that customers are now shifting their focus towards the iPhone 13 (priced at VND 11.19 – 11.49 million) or the latest iPhone 15 series, including the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which starts at VND 27.99 million. Viettel Store representatives believe that discontinuing the iPhone 14 Plus, along with the older iPhone 11 and iPhone 12, is a sensible move. It allows them to concentrate on the iPhone 15 Plus (starting at VND 19 million) and the iPhone 13 (VND 11.4 million), catering to students, young adults, and those looking to upgrade from older iPhone models.

“By discontinuing the iPhone 14 Plus and phasing out the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12, Viettel Store is streamlining its product portfolio and removing models that no longer align with consumer trends,” said Mr. Nguyen Minh Khue, representing Viettel Store. “We are now primarily focusing on the iPhone 15 Plus, which offers significant upgrades at a starting price of VND 19 million, and the iPhone 13, currently the most affordable official iPhone at VND 11.4 million. These options are ideal for mainstream users, students, and those looking to upgrade from older models like the iPhone X and XR.”

In the second-hand market, the iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and iPhone 14 with 128GB storage are still widely traded, with prices ranging from VND 6.8 to 12 million depending on their condition. Meanwhile, CellphoneS assures that they will maintain sufficient stock for the iPhone 13, 14, and 15 until the end of Q4/2025. Prices have dropped by 3-4% compared to two months ago, and the store offers attractive deals, including 0% installment plans and trade-in allowances of up to VND 3 million.

“CellphoneS is committed to ensuring a steady supply of iPhones for the upcoming peak season in Q4. Our current prices reflect a 3-4% reduction compared to May/June, and we offer competitive deals, 0% interest for up to 12 months, and no hidden fees,” shared Mr. Nguyen Lac Huy, representing CellphoneS.

Apple’s decision to discontinue the iPhone 11, iPhone 12, and iPhone 14 Plus underscores their strategy to encourage users to upgrade to newer models, optimizing their product lineup while keeping pace with consumer trends. While the iPhone 11’s era has come to an end, the iPhone market remains vibrant, with promotions and deals on models from the iPhone 13 onwards.