According to a recent report by Statista, the average cost of Android smartphones is now half of the cost of the Apple iPhone.
Back in 2010, the price gap between Android smartphones and the iPhone was around $261. This increased to $330 in 2011, $366 in 2012, and $374 in 2013.
It’s hardly a surprise that the average selling price of Apple’s iPhones is higher than that of Android smartphones. What is surprising though, is the fact that the price gap between iOS and Android devices is actually widening. In 2013, the price gap was $374, up from just $261 in 2010. Despite Apple’s introduction of the (only slightly) cheaper iPhone 5C, the average iPhone selling price was more than twice as high as the average price of an Android smartphone. That’s why, despite a gradual decline in market share, Apple still takes the lion’s share of profits in the smartphone industry.
Factors Contributing to the Price Gap
Several factors contribute to the widening price gap between iPhones and Android smartphones. One of the primary reasons is Apple’s premium branding and marketing strategy. Apple positions its products as high-end, luxury items, which allows them to command higher prices. The materials used in iPhones, such as aerospace-grade aluminum and high-quality glass, also add to the cost.
On the other hand, Android smartphones are available in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly models to high-end devices. This diversity in pricing is due to the open-source nature of the Android operating system, which allows multiple manufacturers to produce Android devices. Companies like Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus offer a variety of models that cater to different segments of the market, driving down the average cost of Android smartphones.
Impact on Market Share and Consumer Choice
The price disparity between iPhones and Android smartphones has significant implications for market share and consumer choice. While Apple continues to dominate the high-end segment of the market, Android smartphones have a larger share of the overall market due to their affordability and variety. This has led to a diverse ecosystem where consumers can choose from a wide range of devices based on their budget and preferences.
For instance, budget-conscious consumers might opt for a Xiaomi or Motorola device, which offers good performance at a lower price point. On the other hand, those looking for premium features might choose a Samsung Galaxy S series or a Google Pixel. This variety ensures that there is an Android device for almost every type of consumer, contributing to its widespread adoption.
Prices of smartphones have come down over the last few years, although the price of the iPhone has only reduced slightly, whereas prices of Android handsets have reduced more. This trend is likely to continue as more manufacturers enter the market and competition increases.
Moreover, the introduction of 5G technology and advancements in smartphone features are expected to influence pricing strategies further. While Apple may continue to maintain its premium pricing, Android manufacturers might focus on offering advanced features at competitive prices to attract more consumers.
The widening price gap between iPhones and Android smartphones is a result of various factors, including branding, material quality, and market strategy. While Apple remains a dominant player in the high-end segment, the affordability and variety of Android devices ensure that they continue to capture a significant share of the market. As technology evolves, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics change and what new trends emerge in the smartphone industry.
Source Statista, Phone Arena
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
