Unlocking Savings: Your Guide to Buying the iPhone 15 Series

Politics, News Sept. 21, 2023, 5:02 a.m.

The availability of the latest iPhone models has expanded to various carriers and retailers, offering discounts and trade-in options. Consider Apple for unlocked iPhones or explore refurbished options.

In today's smartphone market, getting your hands on the latest iPhone has become more accessible than ever before. Gone are the days when you could only purchase the original iPhone directly from Apple or through AT&T. Nowadays, all major carriers and prominent retailers offer the iPhone lineup, and they're vying for your attention with enticing deals and promotions. Of course, if you prefer the direct route, you can still buy your iPhone directly from Apple, either in their physical stores or online.

For those eagerly anticipating the release of the new iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, or iPhone 15 Pro Max, we've compiled a summary of some of the most attractive deals and promotions offered by popular retailers and carriers. This will help you secure the best possible deal when acquiring your new iPhone. If you're considering other iPhone models, don't forget to check out our comprehensive guide on the Best iPhone deals. And if you find yourself unsure about which iPhone to choose, we have a separate article comparing every iPhone model to assist you in making an informed decision.

Purchasing your iPhone directly from Apple offers a few distinct advantages. One of them is the ability to acquire an unlocked, SIM-free iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Plus, a rarity in today's market. Additionally, Apple's platform is the go-to place for joining the iPhone Upgrade Program, which starts at just $39.50 per month and provides you with a new iPhone every year, complete with AppleCare+ coverage.

Furthermore, Apple offers a trade-in program that allows you to exchange your old iPhone for credit of up to $650 towards the purchase of a new one. This trade-in option is not limited to Apple; you can also trade in your old iPhone with retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. For more detailed guidance on selling or trading in your old iPhone, refer to our separate article.

In the United States, Apple has once again teamed up with carriers to offer discounts on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus. If you purchase a phone activated on AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, you'll receive a $30 discount. That's why Apple lists the iPhone 15 at $799 and the iPhone 15 Plus at $899, with the carrier-activated discount applied. Keep in mind that if you opt for the Apple Store, you'll always pay the full price, but it's a straightforward way to acquire an iPhone, and in some cases, it's the only option for purchasing one without the obligation to activate it on a mobile network.

If you're interested in the iPhone 15 Plus, you can stay updated on the best prices across various retailers by referring to our automated pricing table. A similar table is available for the iPhone 15 Plus as well.

When it comes to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, the Apple Store remains your top choice for acquiring unlocked or SIM-free models. Unlike the standard iPhone 15, there is no $30 carrier activation discount on Pro models in the United States. Below are the prices for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max:

iPhone 15 Pro prices:

iPhone 15 Pro Max prices:

To keep track of the best prices for the iPhone 15 Pro, consult our automated pricing table. A similar resource is available for the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

If your goal is to acquire the latest iPhone at a reduced cost, you'll likely need to consider purchasing it through a carrier or mobile provider. However, be prepared for some significant strings attached to these deals, so always read the fine print. While buying directly from Apple with carrier activation can provide access to special carrier deals, purchasing from the carrier itself may offer even more options.

For those looking to save money and reduce their environmental footprint, consider buying a refurbished iPhone 15. Refurbished devices undergo rigorous testing and repairs to ensure they function and appear like new. Apple's official refurbished iPhones, for instance, come with a brand-new body and screen, complete with accessories, battery, and warranty, making them nearly indistinguishable from brand-new devices. For more information, check out our comprehensive guide on buying refurbished or second-hand iPhones.

At the time of this writing, Apple does not yet offer refurbished iPhone 15 models for sale through their Refurbished Store. Typically, these models become available once the next iPhone iteration is released (so keep an eye out for the iPhone 14 line). Nevertheless, rest assured that the Apple Refurbished Store offers the highest quality of refurbished iPhones.

If you can't wait for Apple to release refurbished iPhone 15 models or are in search of a better deal, there are reputable resellers to explore.