According to a recent report by the Nikkei, Apple has come to an agreement with Japanese carrier NTT DoCoMo for them to sell the iPhone on their network, and the deal will probably include the new iPhone 5S.
As well as the iPhone 5S, NTT DoCoMo is also expected to offer the new iPhone 5C and the existing iPhone 5. The devices are due to land on the carrier sometime this fall. This move marks a significant milestone for Apple as it expands its reach in the Japanese market, which has been dominated by local brands and other international competitors.
Launch Dates and Pre-Orders
We previously heard that Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C on the 20th of September, and both devices will apparently go up for pre-order on the 13th of September. This aligns with Apple’s typical strategy of creating buzz and anticipation around its new product launches. The pre-order period allows Apple to gauge demand and manage supply chain logistics more effectively.
It is not clear as yet whether NTT DoCoMo will offer the iPhone 5S and 5C from the 20th of September, or whether they will release the devices later in the year. Given the competitive nature of the smartphone market, it would be advantageous for NTT DoCoMo to align their release dates closely with Apple’s global launch to capitalize on the initial excitement and demand.
Impact on the Japanese Market
The inclusion of NTT DoCoMo, Japan’s largest mobile carrier, in Apple’s distribution network is a strategic move that could significantly boost iPhone sales in Japan. NTT DoCoMo has a vast customer base and extensive network coverage, which could make the iPhone more accessible to a larger audience. This partnership could also put pressure on other carriers like SoftBank and KDDI, who have been offering the iPhone for several years.
Moreover, the introduction of the iPhone 5C, a more affordable version of the iPhone, could attract a different segment of the market. The iPhone 5C is expected to appeal to younger consumers and those who are more price-sensitive, thereby broadening Apple’s customer base in Japan.
Source Nikkei ()
Have a look at the difference between the iPhone 5C and 5S to see how Apple’s two latest iPhones compare. The iPhone 5S is expected to feature advanced technologies such as a fingerprint sensor and a more powerful processor, while the iPhone 5C will likely focus on offering a variety of color options and a lower price point.
If you own an iPhone 5 and are thinking of upgrading, check out our post on the difference between the iPhone 5 and 5s. The iPhone 5S is anticipated to offer several improvements over the iPhone 5, including better camera capabilities, enhanced performance, and new software features that could make the upgrade worthwhile for many users.
The partnership between Apple and NTT DoCoMo is poised to be a game-changer in the Japanese smartphone market. With the impending launch of the iPhone 5S and 5C, both companies stand to benefit from increased sales and market share. As the release date approaches, it will be interesting to see how this collaboration unfolds and what impact it will have on the competitive landscape in Japan.
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