Apple just killed off the iPhone 11 and the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, following the launch of the iPhone 14 – here’s why…
Key Takeaways
Apple’s Pro / Pro Max models only hang around for a year because when a new series launches Apple wants you to buy its latest, most expensive flagships – not discount Pro models from the previous year.
Apple discontinues its outgoing Pro models to prevent disruption in sales of its new Pro models.
The discontinuation strategy is consistent; for instance, when the iPhone 13 range was introduced, the iPhone 12 Pro models were discontinued.
The iPhone 14 Pro models were discontinued when Apple launched its iPhone 15 series too.
You can still buy them, and you’re best bet is via a legit refurbished phone specialist.
Older Pro Max models like the iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro Max remain excellent choices in 2024, boasting excellent camera quality, impressive battery life, and overall great value.
Is the iPhone 13 Pro Max still worth a buy in 2024? Absolutely – it is a powerhouse of a phone. The camera is superb (even by 2024 standards), its performance is brilliant, and it’ll get iOS updates until well into the late-2020s.
This applies doubly to the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max as well. They’re newer and come with a slew of updates you do not get on the iPhone 13 Pro series. Most notably Dynamic Island.
If you’re savvy with your cash, the smart way to buy flagship iPhones is to get the previous year’s model. I’ve done this for as long as I can remember, never paying more than $800 for a Pro or Pro Max model.
Apple Discontinued The iPhone 13 Pro Max When The iPhone 14 Launched
In 2024, you cannot buy the iPhone 13 Pro Max / Pro or the iPhone 14 Pro Max / Pro but you can still buy the iPhone 13, iPhone SE, and the iPhone 14 base models – these make up Apple’s “cheaper” options inside its store.
The iPhone 13 Pro models were discontinued when the iPhone 14 series launched, and the iPhone 14 Pro models went the same way when Apple launched the iPhone 15.
Later this year, the iPhone 16 series will arrive and Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro models will disappear, alongside the base model iPhone 13, leaving the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 as the “cheaper” options.
And this trend will continue ad infinitum for as long as Apple makes iPhones…
Apple’s 2023/24 iPhone Line-Up
Apple’s 2023/24 lineup of iPhones showcases a variety of models, each tailored to different user needs and preferences. Here’s a detailed look at each model:
iPhone 15 Pro / Pro Max 🌟
- Features: The iPhone 15 Pro is Apple’s 2023/24 flagship model, with state-of-the-art camera systems, the latest A-series processor for unmatched performance, and a superior OLED display. It also boasts enhanced battery life and potentially new software capabilities exclusive to the Pro line.
- Target Audience: Aimed at tech enthusiasts and users who demand the best in smartphone technology, photography, and performance.
iPhone 15 📱
- Features: The iPhone 15 introduces upgraded features such as an enhanced camera setup, a more powerful and efficient chip than its predecessor, and a refined design. It offers a balance of high-end specs and accessibility.
- Target Audience: Perfect for mainstream users who desire up-to-date technology combined with practicality and style.
iPhone 14 🔄
- Features: The iPhone 14, from the previous year, balances performance and value. It features a quality dual-camera system, a vibrant display, and reliable processing power, making it a worthy contender in the lineup.
- Target Audience: Ideal for those seeking Apple’s quality and innovation at a more accessible price point.
iPhone 13 📉
- Features: The iPhone 13 remains a strong performer with its capable camera system, solid processor, and sleek design that aligns closely with newer models.
- Target Audience: Best suited for budget-conscious consumers who want a modern iPhone without the premium price tag of the latest models.
iPhone SE 📲
- Features: The iPhone SE offers a compact and affordable alternative in Apple’s lineup. It combines a smaller, classic design with powerful internals, typically featuring the same processor as previous high-end models.
- Target Audience: Designed for users who prefer a smaller, more traditional iPhone and those seeking an economical entry into the Apple ecosystem.
And here’s a list of all the iPhones that Apple has discontinued.
Out of all the iPhones currently available via Apple’s official channels – its online store and physical shops – the cheapest model remains the iPhone SE 2022 ($429) with the iPhone 13 ($599) in second place. The iPhone 14 now retails for $699, while the iPhone 15 starts from $799.
For an overview of what to buy right now, check out our guide to the best iPhone you can buy right now.
Why Apple Discontinued The iPhone 13 Pro?
Apple’s approach to discontinuing its outgoing Pro models, such as the iPhone 13 Pro Max or Pro, or the iPhone 14 Pro models, is a strategic decision aimed at optimizing its product lineup and sales.
The even shorter answer is that, when a new iPhone series launches, Apple wants its users to buy the latest and most expensive models, not discounted models from the previous year.
In order to facilitate this Apple removes all outgoing Pro and Pro Max models from its official channels as soon as the new series launches.
Apple does keep the last couple of previous edition base models around, offering a cheaper option inside its latest lineup of iPhones. That’s why you can still buy the iPhone 14, iPhone 13, and iPhone SE in 2024 from Apple.
In 2025, it will be the iPhone 15 that is the cheaper model with either the iPhone 13 or the iPhone SE being discontinued. Most likely, it’ll be the iPhone SE as it is the only phone that still uses TouchID and is essentially the black sheep in Apple’s current lineup.
Here’s an expanded view on why this happens and its implications:
Maintaining Market Position for New Models 🌟
- 🔬 Focus on Newest Technology: Phasing out older Pro models keeps spotlight on latest releases, directing customer attention to newest technology and features.
- 💰 Preventing Price Competition: Avoids internal competition by removing discounted older Pro models that could divert sales from new releases.
Consistent Yearly Pattern ⏳
- 📅 Historical Trend: Previous Pro models typically removed from official sales channels with each new iPhone series launch.
- 📊 Streamlining the Product Lineup: Simplifies product offering, easing customer choice and inventory management.
Impact on Consumers and Market Dynamics 🛍️
- 🔄 Incentivizing Upgrades: Encourages consumers to purchase latest devices, promoting regular upgrade cycles.
- 🏪 Secondary Market Growth: Boosts reseller and refurbished phone markets for discontinued models.
Strategic Pricing and Positioning 💸
- 📈 Creating a Pricing Hierarchy: Maintains clear pricing structure, ensuring distinct positioning for each model in terms of pricing and features.
Can You Still Buy The iPhone 13 Pro Max?
If you want to pick up an iPhone 13 Pro Max in 2024 and, you know, save yourself a little bit of cash there are plenty of ways to get one – most networks still have plenty of them in stock.
And make no mistake, the iPhone 13 Pro Max is still a killer phone. It has a brilliant camera, and outstanding battery life, and is still very much worth a buy in 2024, especially if you’re looking to save some money.
Ditto the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, although you’ll pay more for these because they’re A) newer and have better spec and hardware, and B) come with new things like Dynamic Island.
My advice? If you’re going to pick up an older, flagship iPhone model get it refurbished – you’ll save a fortune (40% or more) and it’ll be certified which means it has been through a 30-point reconditioning process before buying resold.
And don’t let the name put you off, refurb iPhones look and function as good as new. I know this because I’ve owned about three of them in the past several years.
