Retailers dropping prices on iPhone ahead of impending update
Some retailers have begun marking down the price of the iPhone 4, suggesting stock clearing measures have begun in anticipation of an expected hardware update. While most recent rumors have suggested a September launch, however, some recent buzz indicates that the next iPhone might not emerge until October. Still, in light of the markdowns, September seems a more likely candidate.
According to reports from Engadget and Phone Arena, both Radio Shack and Target planned to offer between $30 and $50 off of the price of an iPhone 4 with a two-year contract. We verified Monday morning that Radio Shack has a current promotion running through Saturday, offering the iPhone 4 for $169.99 and $269.99 for the 16GB and 32GB models, respectively. Radio Shack is also offering up to $100 credit for the trade-in of a previous iPhone model, dropping the price to as low as $69 with contract.
We also spoke to contract phone sales representatives from Chicago-area Target stores, who confirmed that the iPhone 4 can be had for $149.99 or $249.99 for 16GB or 32GB models with a two-year contract. Leaks over the weekend suggested Target may have different pricing depending on whether the iPhone was activated with AT&T or Verizon, but we were told that the price applies to both carriers. Target also offers trade-in credit for used iPhone models as well as other mobile electronics and even used games; one representative encouraged bringing in any unused electronics and games for potential trade-in credit.
