ashdevIf you’re wondering how much does an iPhone 6 cost, you’re not alone. The smartphone market is a competitive one, and consumers are constantly looking for ways to save money. Fortunately, there are many options when it comes to contract-free smartphones, refurbished phones, and Lightning docks. You may want to consider some of these options to help save some cash while you wait for the Apple iPhone 8 or iPhone X to come out.
Refurbished iPhones
Refurbished iPhones cost less than new versions, which is a boon to Apple fans who can’t afford to buy a brand new iPhone. They also help to cut carbon emissions.
In recent years, refurbished smartphones have become popular. These devices are cleaned, refurbished, and tested. Their batteries may not be fully functional, but the handsets are unlocked and SIM free, and come with all parts and accessories.
When you buy a refurbished iPhone, you’ll get the full experience of the latest technology. This is because they run on the original operating system, and have a one-year warranty. You can get a model that is as much as $110 cheaper than its new version, which means you can save hundreds of dollars.
Refurbished iPhones are available through a variety of sources. You can check out the inventory on Apple’s website or visit a retailer such as Amazon.
Some of the most popular refurbished models include the iPhone 6, iPhone 6S, and iPhone 6S Plus. The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus are available in a number of colors. A 16GB refurbished model costs $529, while a 64GB model costs $589.
Another option is to purchase a refurbished iPhone from a third party reseller, such as eBay or Swappa. Typically, these companies sell a wide variety of reconditioned mobile devices, and have a reputation for selling quality units.
Some of the refurbished iPhones sold by third party vendors are certified and come with a 12-month warranty. However, it’s worth noting that the quality of the cosmetic condition will vary. That’s because Apple has previously used refurbished iPhones for repairs and replacements, so they’re likely to have a few scratches and other signs of wear and tear.
Contract-free
If you have been waiting for Apple’s iPhone 6 to arrive, you’ll be pleased to know that it is finally on the shelves. The new model features a slick pressure-sensitive 3D Touch display, as well as a megapixel camera. In addition, the iPhone has a cool new pink colour scheme.
As if the phone itself isn’t already expensive, you’ll need to pay for the contract too. In the US, the contract-free iPhone 6 starts at $649, for the 16GB model. For the larger 128GB model, you’ll have to settle for $949. And the price goes up when you factor in taxes.
If you’re not in the market for a new handset, you may want to consider trading in your old phone for a credit toward a new one. T-Mobile has the iPhone 6 for free if you trade in a qualifying smartphone. You can do this in-store or online.
While you’re at it, you might as well check out Verizon Wireless’ offer. They’ll give you a $300 credit towards the purchase of a new iPhone 6. And if you have an eligible older iPhone, you can actually get a $200 gift card to boot.
Lastly, you can take your pick of MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) like Virgin Media and Voda. Each of these carriers has a three-month data test drive to entice you to try out the newest mobile technology. Of course, you’ll have to cut back to a mere 2GB of data when the offer ends.
With a few quick comparisons, you’ll be able to see just how much the iPhone is costing you. Not only that, but you’ll also discover that the iPhone 6 is more expensive than last year’s flagship.
16GB vs 64GB
The latest iPhone 6 models are available in two flavors, a 5.5 inch and a larger phablet. Both come with the iPhone’s signature 16GB of memory and a choice of silver, space gray or gold. They can be purchased either with or without a contract. A plethora of accessories is on offer for both the newer models.
The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus are the only handsets in Apple’s portfolio to feature 64GB and 128GB storage. While you can buy the iPhone on contract, you may be able to get a better deal on the device itself. Typically, the older smartphones receive a bit of a discount if you sign a new two-year contract with a carrier. For instance, you can expect to pay around $150 for a 16GB iPhone 5s, whereas you’ll have to pay about $300 for the same handset on a contract with Verizon.
In short, if you can’t afford to drop $199 on a new iPhone, you’re out of luck. Fortunately, the carrier Optus has a nifty AU$80 plan that includes 6GB of data, plus unlimited text and talk. To sweeten the deal, the carrier will give you a 2GB bonus on top of that, which should cover most of your needs.
Amongst the iPhone’s many features, the most notable is the 5MP FaceTime HD front-facing camera, which is able to take a great selfie. Its 12MP iSight rear camera is capable of capturing sharp photos and videos. There’s also the new 3D touch-equipped augmented reality iPhone Maps app, which allows you to navigate through your environment using your iPhone’s digital eyes.
While you’re at it, why not get yourself the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s plus? They’ll be available in silver, space gray and gold, and will be unlocked to work on any carrier.
TouchID sensors
The iPhone 6s has a TouchID sensor, and it’s faster than you’d expect. It unlocks your phone before you can read a notification or launch an app. It’s not as fast as the Samsung Galaxy S7, but it’s not bad.
The touch ID isn’t the only way to unlock your device. Apple Pay works on the same principle, allowing you to pay with your fingerprint.
The iPhone 6s also uses an ambient light sensor that spruces up the display to suit the surrounding environment. Another cool feature is the pulse sensor, which works over reflexion. This can be paired with the other novelty to create a super cool, yet time-consuming way to open your phone.
Apparently, the iPhone SE has a Touch ID system too. However, it’s not as advanced as the one on the iPhone 6s, and isn’t as quick. Similarly, the touchscreen isn’t as large as on the iPhone 6s.
The Apple Store does offer replacement Touch ID sensors, although you’ll likely have to visit a store to get them. They can cost you a pretty penny. You can also try swapping out the home button. If that doesn’t work, you can go to an authorized repair center.
There’s a lot to love about Touch ID, but it’s not always the best thing. For example, Apple has settled a lawsuit over a broken Touch ID sensor on the iPhone 6. Fortunately, it’s not an issue with the iPhone 6 or 6s.
On the downside, the Touch ID isn’t compatible with other devices, so you can’t use it to pay for something with your credit card. And even if you do manage to use it to pay, the credit card number won’t be saved in the secure enclave that is paired with the Touch ID sensor.
Lightning dock
There is a lot of competition in the docking industry for the new iPhone 6. And Apple is no exception. This year, the company has released a docking station designed to accommodate both the new iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. The new model features a flat surface and an audio line-out port. It also supports simultaneous charging and data synchronisation.
The new Lightning dock is made from anodized aluminum, which matches the aluminum finish of the new iPhones. While it’s not the most inexpensive dock, it’s the most impressive. Unlike its plastic predecessor, it doesn’t come with a power cable, but it’s compatible with Apple’s USB Power Adapter.
Another feature of the new iPhone Lightning Dock is the flat base, which allows for larger iPhones with protective cases. In addition, it offers the option for an audio-out port on the back, which is useful for connecting headphones.
One of the downsides to the Lightning dock is its lack of third party case compatibility. However, it is compatible with iPods and the iPhone 5s, which is a big plus.
Some docks provide better functional support than the Lightning dock, especially if you have an iPad. The HiRise by Twelve South is a good example.
Those looking for a dock that works with both the new iPhones and iPads may want to consider the HiRise Deluxe. That’s because it features interchangeable cables. You can connect your iPad or iPhone to it, while also syncing and charging your device using iTunes.
The Apple Lightning dock is an excellent accessory, but it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of the HiRise. Additionally, it costs more than some of the more affordable, but more flexible, third party docks.