In a surprising development, longtime iPhone users have upgraded their devices not due to new AI features but rather due to fears of impending tariffs leading to price increases. Data show that the percentage of users retiring phones older than three years rose significantly from 30% to 39%. The impending tariffs created urgency among typically cost-conscious users known to delay upgrades. This shift was more pronounced among those reluctant to upgrade rather than regular upgraders, indicating a significant behavioral change in response to potential price hikes.
In a surprising twist, it wasn't flashy AI features that finally nudged longtime iPhone users to upgrade - it was tariffs.
The percentage of US iPhone buyers retiring phones three years or older hit 39% in this recent period. That's up from a steady 30% in previous quarters.
The threat of tariff-induced price increases really moved the needle.
Long-term users, typically more cost-conscious than tech-hungry early adopters, decided it was better to buy now than risk paying more later.
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