Here’s why I left T-Mobile for an MVNO
I had been a loyal T-Mobile customer since 2016, when the company introduced its T-Mobile ONE plan. I had a military discount the entire time I was with them, but even with that discount my bill eventually ballooned to $113 a month thanks to T-Mobile’s price hikes. I decided enough was enough, so I started looking for a cheaper alternative. Plus, with Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro costing at least $100 more this year, I thought cutting my cell phone bill might help soften the blow if I upgraded to a new device. And so, I sought out an MVNO. more…

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Apple Watch heart rate accuracy vs. rivals: devil is in the details
Apple wasn't kidding when it claimed that the Apple Watch Series 12 has the best heart rate accuracy of all wearables, but the extensive study also shows just how close some key rivals are under certain test conditions.Apple Watch Series 12 features improved health features - image credit: Apple.Other than the return of the popular ceramic casing, the Apple Watch Series 12's most significant update was in its improved health sensing system. Central to this is how the new Series 12 and the Apple Watch Ultra 4 monitor heart rate every five seconds.Apple's Deidre Caldbeck, senior director of Apple Watch and health product marketing, said during the launch that the company had tested it against rivals. Now Apple has published the results of that test. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Siri AI is coming: Here are three times it’s really impressed me so far
Siri AI launches next week in iOS 27, and it’s a huge upgrade to Apple’s assistant. There are tons of ways Siri is new and improved, but here are three examples of times Siri has impressed me so far. more…

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Deals: AirPods 5 from $64 w/ trade, AirPods Pro 3, Studio Display XDR $330 off, Ceramic Apple Watch, more
Alongside the ongoing AirPods Pro 3 deal, pre-orders are flying on the new AirPods 5, Apple Watch Ultra 4, and Apple Watch Series 12 with some early discounts. We just detailed how to score the new AirTag from $20 each, and a solid $50 off Sharge’s impressive metal 300W smart display power bank. Check it all out below.  more…

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Half-fold Apple’s iPhone Duo once and you’ll start asking for an iPad Duo
Apple finally shipped a foldable phone, and the most interesting thing about it is not the hinge. It is what happens when you stop treating… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple’s brilliant Studio Display XDR just hit its lowest price ever
Macworld Apple Studio Display XDR View Deal (function () { document.querySelector("#sticky-promo-block a").addEventListener("click", function(e) { const debug = document.location.host.search(/lndo.site|go-vip.net/) !== -1; const text = this.closest("#sticky-promo-block").querySelector("p.promo-title").textContent; const data = { event: "stickyConversionUnitClick", eventCategory: "Sticky Conversion", eventAction: "Click", eventLabel: text }; if(debug)console.log("Sticky Conversion CLick - pushing to dataLayer: ", data); dataLayer.push(data); return true; }); })(); If you spend your days editing photos, grading video, or designing for print, you already know a subpar monitor can mess up hours of work. That’s where Apple’s Studio Display XDR can save you lots of lost time and money. Normally selling for an MSRP of $3,299, it’s more than $300 off today, a rare price cut that brings the price down to $2,969, the lowest it’s ever been. The best part about the Studio Display XDR is right in the name. Its 27-inch 5K Retina XDR panel with mini-LED backlighting delivers deep, clean blacks and bright highlights. You get up to 1,000 nits for everyday work, so it stays crisp even in a sunlit room, but it can hit 2,000 nits of peak HDR brightness that makes highlights and shadows in HDR footage look the way they’re supposed to. Motion is smooth, too, thanks to a 120Hz refresh rate with Adaptive Sync. This will make scrolling online or panning across a huge canvas feel fluid. It’s got full tilt and height adjustability, and of course has a gorgeous design that will look great next to any Mac. The monitor features two Thunderbolt 5 ports that handle high-speed accessories and can fast-charge a Mac laptop over a single cable. You can even daisy-chain a second Studio Display XDR if you want a massive two- or 3-screen workspace with a Thunderbolt 5 cable. Apple takes things one step further by adding a 12MP Center Stage camera that keeps you sharp and framed on video calls, a three-mic array, and a six-speaker system with force-cancelling woofers. Is $2,969 a lot? Yes. Is this monitor worth every penny considering the quality and everything it brings to the table? Also yes. So grab one before the deal poofs into thin air.

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Before you use Apple Upgrade for iPhone 18 Pro, unlock your credit
A credit freeze could make getting an iPhone 18 Pro on preorder day in a timely fashion much harder than it needs to be. Here's how to avoid a checkout headache.Unfreeze your credit before financing an iPhone 18 ProSome payment options that Apple or carriers provide require a credit check before customers can complete their iPhone purchase. Anyone with frozen credit needs to plan accordingly before preorders start.A credit freeze prevents lenders from accessing your credit report, helping stop unauthorized accounts from being created. While it won't affect existing credit cards, it can block credit checks for new financing even from vendors you already have a relationship with. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Save $600 on Apple's M5 Max 14-inch MacBook Pro at Amazon
Amazon has issued deeper price drops on a wide range of MacBook Pro models heading into the weekend, with a standout offer knocking $600 off an M5 Max 14-inch config.Save $600 on Apple's M5 Max 14-inch MacBook Pro this weekend - Image credit: AppleToday we're highlighting a fresh $600 price drop on Apple's high-end M5 Max 14-inch MacBook Pro with an 18-core CPU, 32-core GPU, 36GB of RAM, and a spacious 2TB SSD.Save $600 on M5 Max 14" MacBook Pro Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Today in Apple history: Steve Ballmer freaks out and stomps an iPhone
On September 11, 2009, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer snatched a Microsoft worker's iPhone during a big meeting and pretended to destroy it. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Apple Original Films debuts harrowing trailer for ‘The Last First: Winter K2’
Apple Original Films has unveiled the trailer for the upcoming documentary film “The Last First: Winter K2.” In “The Last First: Winter K2”… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs Ultra 3: Here’s everything new
Apple Watch Ultra 4 has the same external look as Ultra 3, but it’s packed with internal upgrades to the chip and health sensors that unlock new and improved features. Here’s everything new in Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs Ultra 3. more…

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Microsoft Copilot joins CarPlay, leaving Gemini as the biggest holdout
Apple CarPlay now works with six major third-party AI chatbot apps. Microsoft Copilot is the latest iPhone app to add CarPlay support. This leaves Google Gemini as the last major holdout for now. more…

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9to5Mac Daily: September 11, 2026 – More on Apple Intelligence, iPhone Duo 
Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players. Sponsored by Stuff:Stuff helps you get everything out of your head and into a simple, elegant system—closing open loops and reducing mental stress. A simple to-do list for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, with powerful tools that make organizing, tracking, and checking off your tasks a whole lot more satisfying. Get Stuff done. Sponsored by iMazing: iMazing’s platform for data transfer and device management keeps getting better. Get 20% off iMazing with code 9TO5-SEP26-20OFF.  more…

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Apple shares the data behind Apple Watch Series 12’s biggest health claim
Apple makes a bold claim when it comes to Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. According to Apple, the new Health Sensing System on both watches “delivers the most accurate heart rate sensing in a wearable.” Apple backs up this claim with a new study that shows how Series 12 heart rate sensing compares to other leading wearables, including smart rings and fitness bands. more…

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Best time to buy an iPhone in 2026: Buy now or wait?
Macworld If you’re planning to buy a new iPhone, timing your purchase can save you hundreds of dollars or pounds. There are certain times of year when buying is a bad idea, and others when discounts, trade-in deals and retailer promotions make it much easier to get a bargain. Apple rarely discounts its newest iPhones directly, but prices often fall after new models launch in September and during major sales events such as Black Friday. In 2026, however, the usual pattern changed: Apple raised prices across the range, with even 2025’s iPhone 17 increasing by £100 and the older iPhone 16 returning to its original price. So if your priority is getting the lowest possible price, right now may not be the best time to buy. That doesn’t mean you should automatically wait. Whether it makes sense to buy now depends on which iPhone you’re considering. Some models, including the iPhone 17, 17e and Air, are still months away from replacement, while discontinued models such as the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max may become more attractive if retailers clear remaining stock. In this guide, we explain the best and worst times to buy an iPhone, whether now is a good time to buy each current model, when the best deals are likely to appear, and where to look for them. We’ll also cover whether it’s worth waiting for the next generation and when Apple typically cuts prices on older iPhones. Best and worst times buy an iPhone in 2026-2027: At a glance WheniPhone 18 Pro/MaxiPhone DuoiPhone 17/17e iPhone Air 2026SeptemberOn-sale from September 18On-sale from October 23BuyBuyOctober BuyBuyBuy: Best for dealsBuy: Best for dealsNovember Buy: Best for dealsBuy: Best for dealsBuy: Best for dealsBuy: Best for dealsDecemberBuy: Best for dealsBuy: Best for dealsBuy: Best for dealsBuy: Best for deals2027JanuaryBuyBuyWait for next generation Wait for next generation FebruaryBuyBuyWait for next generation Wait for next generation MarchBuy: Best for dealsBuy: Best for dealsWait for next generation Wait for next generation AprilBuyBuyWait for next generation Wait for next generation MayBuyBuyJuneBuy: Best for dealsBuy: Best for dealsJulyBuy: Best for dealsBuy: Best for dealsAugustWait for next generation Wait for next generation Best times to buy the iPhones in 2026 and 2027. Best iPhone deals right now If you are based in the U.K. it is possible to buy unlocked iPhones on Amazon – and certain models are frequently discounted. If you can get a good discount it’s always a good time to buy. iPhoneDealRRPLowestiPhone Air, 256GB£799 Get the deal at Amazon £200 off £1,099 (was £999)£699iPhone Air, 512GB£999 Get the deal at Amazon  £200 off£1,299 (was £1,199)£774iPhone Air, 1TB£1,199 Get the deal at Amazon £200 off£1,699 (was £1,399)£984iPhone 17e, 256GB No deal£699 (was £599)£576iPhone 17e, 512GB £799 Get the deal at Amazon £100 off£899 (was £799)£769iPhone 17 Pro, 256GB £999 Get the deal at Amazon £100 offDiscontinued (was £1,099)£1,037iPhone 17 Pro, 512GB £1,199 Get the deal at Amazon £100 offDiscontinued (was £1,299)£1,199iPhone 17 Pro Max, 256GB £1,099 Get the deal at Amazon £100 offDiscontinued (was £1,199)£1,049iPhone 17 Pro Max, 512GB £1,299 Get the deal at Amazon £100 offDiscontinued (was £1,399)£1,249 The worst time to buy an iPhone This is generally in the weeks leading up to Apple’s September launch event, or in the early spring, when new models are expected to be announced. Buying just before a refresh means you could miss out on new features or pay full price for a model that’s about to be superseded. The best time to buy an iPhone This depends on where you live: In the U.K., where most iPhones are sold unlocked and off contract, the biggest savings are typically available during major sales events such as Amazon Prime Day (usually in July and October, and occasionally in March) and Black Friday in late November. However, worthwhile iPhone discounts can be found throughout the year if you know where to look. In the U.S., where people tend to buy iPhones through a carrier, the best time to upgrade is often during Black Friday when networks enhance their offers with larger trade-in values, bill credits, gift cards, or discounted service plans. Should you buy a new iPhone now or wait? Ida Blix September and the months that follow are a much better time to buy an iPhone than earlier in the summer. July and August are usually poor months to buy a Pro iPhone because Apple’s September launch is so close. The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and iPhone Duo have now been unveiled, removing that uncertainty. If you need a phone now, there’s little reason to wait for another annual refresh, and the iPhone 17, 17e and Air are also relatively safe purchases because their successors aren’t expected until spring 2027. See: iPhone 18 and 18e rumors and iPhone Air 2 rumors. The iPhone 17 remains the strongest value, with a 120Hz ProMotion display, A19 chip, dual 48MP cameras and 256GB of storage for $799/£799. The 18 Pro and Pro Max make more sense if you want the best cameras, performance or battery life, while the Duo is for buyers specifically interested in Apple’s new folding design. There is, however, one important reason to wait: 2027 could bring a much bigger iPhone redesign. Apple is rumored to be preparing a 20th-anniversary iPhone with a near-all-screen curved design, under-display Face ID, possible solid-state buttons, a thinner and more efficient OLED display, larger battery and major camera improvements. That could make 2027 a more significant upgrade year than 2026. So if your current iPhone is still serving you well, waiting could be worthwhile. Otherwise, buy now if you need a phone, or wait until Amazon’s October sale or Black Friday if price is your main concern. Wondering which iPhone to buy? Read: Best iPhone for our ranked recommendations and our iPhone buying guide for more in-depth information about cameras, displays, performance, storage, battery life and other key specifications across Apple’s current lineup. iPhoneStatusiPhone 18 Pro MaxOn-sale from September 18iPhone 18 ProOn-sale from September 18iPhone DuoOn-sale from October 23iPhone AirBuy now or wait for October Prime Day or Black Friday discounts  iPhone 17Buy now or wait for October Prime Day or Black Friday discounts  iPhone 17e Buy now or wait for October Prime Day or Black Friday discounts  iPhone 16Avoid unless heavily discounted Current guidance about whether it’s a good time to buy an iPhone. When does Apple release new iPhones? Apple has a well-established pattern of releasing new iPhones every year, typically in September. This annual cycle has been remarkably consistent for over a decade, with only rare exceptions. While September remains the anchor for high-end models, Apple has begun to stagger its iPhone launches. Starting with the iPhone 16e in early 2025 and continuing with the iPhone 17e in spring 2026, Apple now releases more affordable models at separate events earlier in the year – often in March. The iPhone 18 lineup is expected to take this strategy a step further. In September 2026 Apple launched the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, alongside the foldable iPhone Duo. The standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2 are expected to follow in spring 2027. September launches are usually accompanied by a dedicated Apple keynote, while spring releases are more likely to be announced via a press release although Apple has held spring events. Following the announcement, Apple typically opens pre-orders within a few days, with devices going on sale one to two weeks later. Initial availability can be limited, particularly for the most popular models and storage configurations. Should you wait for the iPhone 18? For most people, there isn’t a strong reason to wait for the iPhone 18. Apple isn’t expected to launch the standard model until spring 2027, so buying an iPhone 17 before the end of 2026 would still give you several months with Apple’s current mainstream model before its replacement arrives. The iPhone 18 is expected to bring a 2nm A20 chip, potentially 9GB or 12GB of RAM, Apple’s C2 modem and possibly a new 24MP front camera. Extra RAM could prove particularly useful for future Apple Intelligence and Siri features. However, the rear camera system is still expected to consist of two 48MP cameras, while the display may remain broadly similar to the iPhone 17’s 6.3-inch ProMotion panel. There is also some uncertainty over exactly what the iPhone 18 lineup will look like. A September 2026 rumour suggested Apple could effectively merge the standard iPhone and iPhone Air into a single model, rather than continuing them as two separate devices. If that happens, the iPhone 18 could adopt some of the Air’s thinner, lighter design while retaining the broader appeal of the standard iPhone. For now, though, that remains speculative. Price is another consideration. With the arrival of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo, Apple increased iPhone prices across the range, so the iPhone 17 now costs $899, $100 more than at launch. When the iPhone 18 arrives, it is likely to inherit that $899 price point, while the iPhone 17 could drop back to around $799 at which you may regret buying it at the higher price. Wait if you want the newer A20 chip, potentially more RAM, an improved front camera, or are intrigued by the possibility of a thinner redesigned standard model. Don’t wait if you simply want ProMotion, dual 48MP cameras, excellent battery life and 256GB of storage as standard – the iPhone 17 already delivers all of that. Should you buy a current or older iPhone? Thinking of buying the current iPhone rather than waiting for a new model? Read on for expert guidance. Should I buy an iPhone 17? Price When Reviewed: $899 (was $799) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Is now a good time to buy? Yes. The iPhone 17 is a good buy now, especially because it isn’t expected to be replaced until spring 2027. It went on sale in September 2025, but remains Apple’s current mainstream model. Its biggest strengths are the 6.3-inch 120Hz ProMotion display, dual 48MP cameras, and 256GB of storage as standard. Battery life is also strong, making it an excellent all-round choice for most buyers. If you don’t need a new phone immediately, though, it may be worth waiting for a deal. The best discounts are likely during Amazon’s October sales and Black Friday on November 27, when retailers and mobile networks often offer lower prices, trade-in bonuses or contract incentives. Waiting until spring 2027 only makes sense if you specifically want the expected iPhone 18 upgrades, such as the A20 chip, more RAM or an improved front camera. Otherwise, the iPhone 17 remains a very strong buy today. Read our full Apple iPhone 17 review Should I buy an iPhone Air? Price When Reviewed: $1,099 (was $999) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Is now a good time to buy? Yes. The iPhone Air is a good buy if its thin-and-light design is the reason you want it. It went on sale on September 19, 2025, alongside the iPhone 17 lineup. Its exceptionally thin titanium design, 6.5-inch ProMotion display and A19 Pro chip make it particularly attractive to buyers who want a large screen without the bulk of a Pro Max. It prioritizes portability and design over camera versatility and maximum battery life.  Apple is expected to update the iPhone Air in spring 2027, potentially alongside the iPhone 18 and 18e, so it has around six months left as the current model. The Air also tends to attract stronger discounts than Apple’s Pro phones, particularly from third-party retailers. That makes Black Friday one of the best times to buy. Buy now if you find a substantial discount; otherwise, waiting for the fall sales makes sense. Read our full Apple iPhone Air (2025) review Should I buy an iPhone 17e? Price When Reviewed: $699 (was $599) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $599 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Is now a good time to buy? Yes. The iPhone 17e went on sale on March 11, 2026, so it is still relatively new and isn’t expected to be replaced by the iPhone 18e until spring 2027. Its biggest advantages are the A19 chip, 256GB of storage as standard, and strong battery life, all at Apple’s lowest current-generation starting price. It’s particularly compelling for kids, older users and anyone who doesn’t need ProMotion or multiple rear cameras. There’s therefore little reason to wait for the next generation unless you specifically want whatever upgrades arrive with the iPhone 18e. The more immediate reason to wait is price. As we head toward the holiday shopping season, Black Friday is likely to bring some of the best 17e deals, whether through outright discounts, carrier promotions or trade-ins. Buy now if you need a phone; wait if saving another $50-$100 matters more. Read our full Apple iPhone 17e review Should I buy an iPhone 18 Pro / Pro Max Price When Reviewed: $1,199 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1199 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Is now a good time to buy? Yes. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are excellent buys now if you want Apple’s best conventional iPhones. Announced on September 9, 2026, they go on sale September 18 Their biggest attractions are the A20 Pro chip, the triple-48MP camera system with variable aperture, and much better battery life, particularly on the Pro Max. The 18 Pro is the better choice for most buyers, while the Pro Max is worth paying extra for if you want its 6.9-inch display and class-leading endurance.  There’s little reason to wait for their immediate replacements, which aren’t expected until fall 2027, although Apple’s 20th-anniversary iPhone could bring a more substantial redesign. If price matters, waiting a few weeks may be worthwhile: the best early deals are likely around Black Friday, particularly through carriers and trade-in promotions. Large outright discounts are unlikely so soon after launch. Should I buy an iPhone Duo? Price When Reviewed: $1999 Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1999 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Is now a good time to buy? Yes. The iPhone Duo is worth buying if you specifically want Apple’s first foldable, but it isn’t the sensible choice for most people. Apple unveiled it on September 9, with pre-orders opening October 16 and sales beginning October 23, 2026. Its most attractive features are the 7.6-inch folding display, Split View multitasking, and A20 Pro performance. The 5.4-inch outer display also means it can function like a compact iPhone when folded.  At $1,999/£1,999, however, this is a very expensive first-generation product, and the iPhone 18 Pro offers better cameras for substantially less. The Duo probably won’t be replaced until late 2027 at the earliest, so there’s no obvious reason to wait for a second generation if the folding design appeals to you. Black Friday arrives only five weeks after release, but major discounts are unlikely; carrier incentives and trade-ins are more realistic than large cash savings. Should I buy an iPhone 17 Pro or Max? Price When Reviewed: $1,099 (256GB) | $1,299 (512GB) | $1,499 (1TB) | $1,999 (2TB) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $1099 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Is now a good time to buy? If you find a good deal, yes The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max could now be among the best-value high-end iPhones – if you can find them discounted. They went on sale on September 19, 2025, but Apple has discontinued them following the arrival of the iPhone 18 Pro range. Their biggest strengths are the A19 Pro chip, advanced triple-camera system, and ProMotion displays, while the Pro Max also offers excellent battery life.  They have already been replaced, so the question isn’t whether to wait for something newer: the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are here now. Instead, compare the saving with what you give up. The newer models add the A20 Pro chip, improved cooling, variable-aperture Main camera and better endurance. If a 17 Pro is only modestly cheaper, buy the 18 Pro instead. But clearance sales and Black Friday could make last year’s models extremely attractive, particularly if retailers cut several hundred dollars from the original price. Read our full Apple iPhone 17 Pro review Should I buy an iPhone 16 Price When Reviewed: $799 (was $699) Best Prices Today: Retailer Price $729.99 View Deal $829 View Deal $829.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Is now a good time to buy? No, unless you get a good discount The iPhone 16 can still be worth buying, but only at the right price. It went on sale on September 20, 2024, and its days in Apple’s lineup are probably numbered: once the iPhone 18 launches in spring 2027, Apple is likely to discontinue it. Its main advantages are the A18 chip with Apple Intelligence support, versatile dual-camera system, and Camera Control and Action buttons. It remains fast and capable, but its 128GB of base storage and older 60Hz display make it much less appealing at anything close to the price of newer models.  That means the decision comes down largely to discounts. Black Friday and clearance sales are likely to offer the best opportunities. If the iPhone 16 is only slightly cheaper than an iPhone 17e or iPhone 17, skip it. If you can find it heavily discounted, however, it can still represent excellent value. Read our full Apple iPhone 16 review FAQ 1. When is the best carrier upgrade timing? Apple typically announces new iPhone models in September. Carriers often roll out their most aggressive trade-in offers and promotional deals around this time to entice customers to upgrade. New releases: Waiting for the September (or spring) launch window is generally a good strategy if you want the latest model at a potentially better subsidized price. Check your contract cycle: Many carrier contracts today last 24 to 36 months. If you’re nearing the end of your contract, you’re in a strong position to negotiate or take advantage of upgrade offers. However, upgrading mid-contract may involve paying off the remaining balance, so it’s worth checking your specific terms. Consider Apple’s upgrade plans: Apple has replaced its old iPhone Upgrade Program with newer financing and leasing options. In the U.S., Apple Upgrade lets you lease an iPhone through Klarna and upgrade, buy or return it at the end of the term. In the U.K., Apple’s Flexible Finance Account offers eligible iPhones on monthly payment plans with the option to upgrade after a set number of payments. Terms and monthly costs vary by model. 2. When does Apple update the iPhone? Apple follows a well-established annual rhythm for its iPhone updates, with the primary event taking place in September each year. Apple typically unveils its new iPhone lineup at a dedicated Apple Event in September. Pre-orders usually open on the Friday following the announcement, with devices shipping and arriving in stores a week later. Apple also occasionally introduces new iPhones outside the September window and in the past it has held a Spring Apple Event at which more affordable iPhones have launched. The iPhone 17e, for example, arrived in March 2026, and the iPhone 16e launched in February 2025. Compatible iPhone models also get a yearly operating system software update with new features than can make your old iPhone feel new again. The major iOS updates follow the September schedule. Read our guide to the next Apple event to find out if an Apple event is imminent. 3. When do iPhone prices drop and by how much? Based on past experience, Apple is very unlikely to reduce the price of a new iPhone during its first year on sale. However, when Apple introduces a new generation of iPhones, it usually cuts the price of the previous year’s models. That means September has traditionally been the point when older iPhones become cheaper. Apple also tends to keep launch prices broadly similar from one generation to the next, at least in the U.S., although exchange rates and other regional factors can affect pricing elsewhere. In 2024, for example, Apple reduced the price of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus by $100/£100 when the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus arrived. The iPhone 16 also fell in price following the launch of the iPhone 17 in 2025. However, because the iPhone 17 doubled the base storage to 256GB, the older iPhone 16 looked less attractive even at $100/£100 less. In 2026, the pattern changed. Apple actually raised iPhone prices, blaming higher memory costs. Even the year-old iPhone 17 and two-year-old iPhone 16 increased by $100, showing that older iPhones don’t always become cheaper when a new generation arrives. 4. Is it better to buy from Apple or a carrier? In the U.S., buying from Apple is usually the better option if you value flexibility. If you pay in full or use Apple’s own financing, the iPhone is unlocked, so you can switch carriers or use another eSIM when traveling. Apple also accepts trade-ins and, importantly, many AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon promotions are available when buying through Apple. However, an iPhone bought from Apple but financed through an AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon device-payment plan is locked to that carrier until it has been paid off. An iPhone bought outright from Apple isn’t. The main reason to buy directly from AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon is to take advantage of a particularly good promotion. U.S. carriers frequently advertise large trade-in credits or “free” iPhones, especially when you add a line or switch networks. The catch is that the discount is usually provided as monthly bill credits over 24 or 36 months, so if you leave early you can lose the remaining credits. In the U.K., Apple sells iPhones unlocked and SIM-free, allowing you to shop separately for a SIM-only plan from EE, Vodafone, O2, Three or an MVNO. This makes it easier to switch networks and can work out cheaper over the life of the phone than bundling the handset and airtime into a single contract. Apple isn’t necessarily the cheapest place to buy, however. Amazon U.K. and other retailers frequently discount SIM-free iPhones, and there can be substantial savings during sales events such as Black Friday. Networks can also offer compelling promotions, including enhanced trade-in values, discounted airtime, generous data allowances or lower monthly payments. But make sure you compare the total cost of the contract, rather than focusing on the headline monthly price. 5. When are the best iPhone deals? The earliest you could expect to get a discount on the newest iPhones is around Black Friday at the end of November, so you might be planning to hold out until then. However, the deals we tend to see, if any, are usually for older handsets. See our round-up of Best Black Friday iPhone deals for more. Nor should you expect to get a discount in an Apple Black Friday sale. Apple’s Black Friday sale usually only takes the form of vouchers with select product purchases, rather than a discount, and it is unlikely that the newest iPhone would qualify as in previous year’s new iPhones haven’t been included. Note that while shopping events like Black Friday gets all the attention, that’s not the only time you can get discounts on Apple products: we see discounts all the time. Another event where we see good iPhone deals is Prime Day, which happens in June or July and October every year. So take a look at the iPhone deals for Amazon Prime Day sale to see what you might be able to save. In our experience, we don’t tend to see discounts on the newest handset until the spring – and these are always from third-party resellers, never from Apple. In fact, we don’t tend to see the iPhone discounted in the U.S. very often, most of the discounts we see are in the U.K. where unlocked iPhones are often sold off-contract at a good discount. 6. Is it worth buying a refurbished iPhone? Yes, buying a refurbished iPhone is absolutely worth it for most people, especially if you want to save money without sacrificing quality. Buying refurbished is a great way to “pick up a bargain” while still getting a premium device. You can typically save 15% to 30% compared to buying new, and sometimes much more on older models. A common misconception is that refurbished is the same as buying a used phone from a stranger, though. It’s not. A used phone is sold “as-is,” with no guarantee it will work properly. A refurbished phone has been professionally inspected, tested, and repaired if needed, and it comes with a warranty. If you want the highest quality, Apple’s own refurbished store is the gold standard. Conclusion: When is the best time to buy a new iPhone? The worst time to buy is usually between July or August, mainly because with new iPhones on the horizon the price of the older handsets are likely to drop very soon. If you want the newest iPhones then the best deals don’t tend to come before the spring and summer months. If you are happy to buy an older iPhone then you will probably see decent deals around Prime Day and Black Friday – but deals happen all year round.  We hope this article has proved helpful in reaching an informed buying decision. Remember that good prices can be found all year round, if a retailer is feeling generous and you know where to look: read our guide to the best iPhone deals for more on that. Wondering how long Apple supports iPhones for? Read How long do iPhones last.

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Apple CEO Ternus on the iPhone Duo: ‘This is what I want’
Apple’s first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, did not arrive because the company suddenly discovered folding screens. It arrived, executives… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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iOS 27 launches next week: Here are three new features I’ve been loving
iOS 27 is packed with new features across Messages, Notes, Apple Wallet, CarPlay, and more. Here are three of my favorite new iOS 27 features. more…

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You should prepare for your iPhone 18 Pro pre-order right now
If you want an iPhone 18 Pro and don't want to wait weeks after they ship, go online now to get your preorder ready. Here's how to do it and what you need to look out for.You can't buy it yet, but you can specify and configure the iPhone 18 Pro model you want - image credit: Apple.Pre-orders for new iPhones always start a few minutes late, depending where you are in the world and whether you're ordering online, or through the app. Then when you get on, certain models sell out in moments.On the day, all you can do to beat the pre-orders starting late is to keep refreshing both the app and the online store. But there is much more you can do in advance to at least hopefully ensure you get the model, the configuration, and the color, that you want. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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You should prepare for your iPhone 18 Pro pre-order right now
If you want an iPhone 18 Pro and don't want to wait weeks after they ship, go online now to get your preorder ready. Here's how to do it and what you need to look out for.You can't buy it yet, but you can specify and configure the iPhone 18 Pro model you want - image credit: Apple.Pre-orders for new iPhones always start a few minutes late, depending where you are in the world and whether you're ordering online, or through the app. Then when you get on, certain models sell out in moments.On the day, all you can do to beat the pre-orders starting late is to keep refreshing both the app and the online store. But there is much more you can do in advance to at least hopefully ensure you get the model, the configuration, and the color, that you want. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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You should prepare for your iPhone 18 Pro pre-order right now
If you want an iPhone 18 Pro and don't want to wait weeks after they ship, go online now to get your preorder ready. Here's how to do it and what you need to look out for.You can't buy it yet, but you can specify and configure the iPhone 18 Pro model you want - image credit: Apple.Pre-orders for new iPhones always start a few minutes late, depending where you are in the world and whether you're ordering online, or through the app. Then when you get on, certain models sell out in moments.On the day, all you can do to beat the pre-orders starting late is to keep refreshing both the app and the online store. But there is much more you can do in advance to at least hopefully ensure you get the model, the configuration, and the color, that you want. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Sunday Sale: Amazon Cuts $500 Off 14-Inch M5 Max MacBook Pro with 36GB RAM and 2TB SSD
Amazon has discounted Apple's 14-inch MacBook Pro with an M5 Max chip, 36GB of unified memory, and a 2TB SSD by $500. The configuration is currently available below Apple's MSRP, making it one of the better values we've found on the high-end 14-inch MacBook Pro lineup. Shop the deal at Amazon. The M5 Max version is designed for demanding professional workloads, including video editing, software development, AI projects, 3D rendering, and other graphics-intensive applications. With 36GB of unified memory and a spacious 2TB SSD, it also offers plenty of room for large files and creative projects. Amazon is also offering fast shipping on available inventory, making this a good opportunity to save on one of Apple's most powerful 14-inch notebooks while the discount remains available. For the latest MacBook Pro prices, availability, and deals, visit our 14" MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Amazon Takes $100 Off 15-Inch M5 MacBook Air Models
Amazon has discounted all three standard configurations of Apple's 15-inch M5 MacBook Air by $100, giving shoppers the opportunity to save on the entire lineup. Whether you're looking for the base model or need additional memory and storage, every standard configuration is currently available below Apple's MSRP at Amazon. The sale includes the 16GB/512GB, 16GB/1TB, and 24GB/1TB models, each priced $100 below Apple's retail pricing. Shop the 16GB/512GB model, the 16GB/1TB model, or the 24GB/1TB model at Amazon. Amazon is also offering fast shipping on available inventory, making it easy to lock in today's pricing while supplies last. For the latest MacBook Air prices, availability, and deals, visit our 15" MacBook Air Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Today’s AirPods Deals: AirPods Pro 3 $50 off, AirPods Max 2 $100 off at Amazon
Amazon's latest sale is delivering good AirPods prices, with discounts available across Apple's entire AirPods lineup. AirPods 4 are currently $99, AirPods 4 with ANC are $144.99, AirPods Pro 3 have dropped to $199, and AirPods Max 2 are now $449. Shop Amazon's AirPods deals here. The biggest discounts are available on AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Max 2, which are currently selling for $50 and $100 below Apple's MSRP, respectively.Note that pricing can change quickly. For the latest sales and deals, see our AirPods Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Amazon continues to offer $30 discount on Apple Watch SE 3 models, prices start at $219
Amazon has Apple Watch SE 3 models on sale for $30 off MSRP, shipping included: - 40mm Apple Watch SE GPS: $219, $30 off MSRP - 44mm Apple Watch SE GPS: $249, $30 off MSRP - 40mm Apple Watch SE GPS + 5G: $249, $30 off MSRP - 44mm Apple Watch SE GPS + 5G: $299, $30 off MSRP These are the lowest sale prices currently available for Apple Watch SE 3 models. For the latest prices & deals, keep an eye on our Apple Watch Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Sunday Sale: Amazon Takes $100 Off Apple’s 13-Inch M5 MacBook Air Lineup
Amazon has discounted all three standard configurations of Apple's 13-inch M5 MacBook Air by $100, making this one of the best opportunities to save on the entire lineup. Whether you're shopping for the entry-level model or need additional storage, every standard configuration is currently available below Apple's MSRP at Amazon. The sale includes the 16GB/256GB, 16GB/512GB, and 24GB/512GB models, each priced $100 below Apple's retail pricing. Shop the 16GB/512GB model, the 16GB/1TB model, or the 24GB/1TB model at Amazon. Amazon is also offering fast shipping on available inventory, making it easy to lock in today's pricing while supplies last. For the latest MacBook Air prices, availability, and deals, visit our 13" MacBook Air Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Amazon Discounts Standard 16-Inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro Models by Up to $300
Amazon is offering solid discounts on two of Apple's standard 16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro configurations. The 24GB RAM/1TB SSD model is currently $240 below Apple's MSRP at $2759.99, while the upgraded 48GB RAM/1TB SSD version is discounted by $300 to $3299. Shop the 24GB model or shop the 48GB model at Amazon. Both Space Black and Silver models are available at the same sale prices, giving buyers the flexibility to choose their preferred finish without paying a premium. These are currently among the best prices available on Apple's standard 16-inch M5 Pro lineup. Amazon is also offering fast shipping on available inventory, making this a good opportunity to save on a new MacBook Pro while the discounts remain available. For the latest prices, availability, and deals, visit our 16" MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Amazon Cuts $300 Off 14-Inch M5 Max MacBook Pro with 36GB RAM and 2TB SSD
Amazon has discounted Apple's 14-inch MacBook Pro with an M5 Max chip, 36GB of unified memory, and a 2TB SSD by $300. The configuration is currently available below Apple's MSRP, making it one of the better values we've found on the high-end 14-inch MacBook Pro lineup. Shop the deal at Amazon. The M5 Max version is designed for demanding professional workloads, including video editing, software development, AI projects, 3D rendering, and other graphics-intensive applications. With 36GB of unified memory and a spacious 2TB SSD, it also offers plenty of room for large files and creative projects. Amazon is also offering fast shipping on available inventory, making this a good opportunity to save on one of Apple's most powerful 14-inch notebooks while the discount remains available. For the latest MacBook Pro prices, availability, and deals, visit our 14" MacBook Pro Price Tracker, updated daily.

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iPads on sale starting at $399, $50 off Apple’s MSRP
Amazon has 11th-generation A16 WiFi iPads in stock on sale for $50 off MSRP, starting at $399. Shipping is free: - 11" 11th-generation 128GB WiFi iPads: $399 $50 off MSRP - 11" 11th-generation 256GB WiFi iPads: $499 $50 off MSRP - 11" 11th-generation 512GB WiFi iPads: $699 $50 off MSRP Amazon's prices are the lowest iPads prices currently available for 11th-generation models. For the latest prices & deals, keep an eye on our iPad Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Amazon Takes $150 Off 13-Inch M5 MacBook Air with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD
Amazon has dropped the price of Apple's 13-inch M5 MacBook Air (Silver) with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD by $150, bringing one of the notebook's most popular configurations down to one of its best prices currently available. Shop the deal at Amazon. The sale comes after Apple's recent MSRP increase, making this one of the first meaningful opportunities to pick up the upgraded 16GB/512GB configuration without paying full retail price. If you've been waiting for pricing to soften, this is one of the better MacBook Air deals we've tracked in recent weeks. Amazon is also offering fast shipping on available inventory, making it easy to lock in the current pricing while supplies last. For the latest MacBook Air prices, availability, and deals, visit our 13" MacBook Air Price Tracker, updated daily.

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Amazon Trims $10 Off MacBook Neo, Only Discount Available Among Major Apple Retailers
Amazon is currently the only Apple retailer in our MacBook Neo Price Tracker offering any discount on Apple's newest notebook. While the savings are modest, Amazon has reduced both the 256GB and 512GB MacBook Neo by $10, making it the lowest-priced retailer we track for every configuration. Current pricing starts at $689 for the 256GB model, while the 512GB model is available for $789. Both prices are currently lower than Apple's MSRP, with no competing discounts available from the other major Apple retailers in our tracker. If you've been waiting for an opportunity to buy a MacBook Neo, Amazon currently offers the best pricing available, along with fast shipping on available inventory. For the latest MacBook Neo prices, availability, and deals, visit our MacBook Neo Price Tracker, updated daily.

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