iPhones depreciating faster every year, Galaxy S devices not as much

Recent data from SellCell reveals that iPhones are depreciating faster than before, challenging their reputation for holding value. While Apple has traditionally led the market in value retention, the launch of the iPhone 16 marks a noticeable shift. Early data shows that iPhones are losing value quicker than previous models, even as Samsung’s Galaxy series gains ground.

iPhones depreciate faster with each new model

The iPhone 16’s release has sparked conversations about its depreciation rate. According to SellCell, the iPhone 16 is depreciating 8% faster than the iPhone 15 did within its first two weeks of launch. This trend suggests a growing decline in the value retention of iPhones, with each new model performing slightly worse than its predecessor.

Historically, Apple has enjoyed a reputation for producing smartphones that retain their value better than other brands. However, recent figures indicate a different scenario, with the iPhone 16 series showing a sharper drop in value compared to the iPhone 14 and 15 models. In just two weeks, the iPhone 16 lost 41.2% of its value, compared to the iPhone 15’s 33.2% loss in the same period.

The declining value retention of iPhones raises questions about Apple’s strategy for future releases. SellCell’s analysis highlights that since the iPhone 12, Apple has experienced a nearly 5% drop in value retention year over year across its models. Despite maintaining a strong resale value overall, the trend shows that each new iPhone release depreciates faster than the last.

The shift could be attributed to several factors, including increased competition, market saturation, and the rapid pace of technological advancements. The iPhone 16, while packed with features and improvements, appears to be struggling to hold its value as well as earlier models did.

For consumers, this shift in value retention may influence buying decisions. The faster depreciation of iPhones might prompt users to consider other brands that hold their value better over time. Samsung’s steady improvement in this area makes it a competitive option for those looking for a smartphone that offers better long-term value.

Samsung’s value retention shows an improvement

While iPhones are depreciating faster, Samsung’s flagship models are showing signs of improvement in value retention. The data from SellCell indicates that Samsung’s Galaxy S23 experienced a 61.1% depreciation over 12 months, which is a notable improvement compared to the S22’s 66.7% loss in the same timeframe.

This trend suggests that Samsung is gradually closing the gap with Apple regarding value retention. If this pattern continues, the difference in depreciation rates between Samsung and Apple could narrow significantly in the coming years. The Galaxy S24, though only six months into its lifecycle, has already demonstrated a slower depreciation rate compared to its predecessors.