Apple Discontinues iPhone 14 Plus in Vietnam as Older Models Surge in Popularity
Table of Contents
- 1. Apple Discontinues iPhone 14 Plus in Vietnam as Older Models Surge in Popularity
- 2. What are the primary security concerns for Vietnamese consumers continuing to use discontinued iPhone models?
- 3. iPhone Models Discontinued in Vietnam – A Comprehensive Guide (2025)
- 4. Officially Discontinued iPhone Models in Vietnam
- 5. Why are iPhone Models Discontinued in Vietnam?
- 6. Impact on Vietnamese Consumers
- 7. Were to Find Discontinued iPhones in Vietnam
- 8. Tips for Buying a Discontinued iPhone in Vietnam
Hanoi, Vietnam – Apple has officially ceased sales of the iPhone 14 Plus in Vietnam, citing weak demand and a strategic shift towards optimizing its product lineup. The move comes as older iPhone models, especially the iPhone 11 and 12, are experiencing a significant resurgence in sales following recent price adjustments.
According to Van Thi Ngoc Yen, Director of the Apple product range at DE DONG Viet System, the decision to discontinue the iPhone 14 Plus was proactive. “Purchasing power of iPhone Plus ranges on the vietnamese market is not as high as was to be expected,” Yen stated, adding that the iPhone 15 Plus will now serve as the primary “Plus” offering. The iPhone 15 Plus (128GB) is currently priced at 19 million VND.
This isn’t a typical product cycle end; it’s a clear signal of Apple’s responsiveness to regional market dynamics. While the larger-screen “Plus” models aim to cater to users desiring a bigger display without the premium price of the “Pro Max,” the iPhone 14 Plus evidently failed to gain sufficient traction in Vietnam.
However, the news isn’t all negative for Apple in the Vietnamese market. Sales of older models have skyrocketed. Nguyen Lac Huy, Communications Manager of cellphones system, reported a 70% increase in sales of older iPhones (excluding the iPhone 16) as March, with an 80% year-over-year growth rate. The iPhone 11, in particular, is attracting buyers with a reseller price of 11.3 million VND for the 128GB version.
Why this Matters: Apple’s Long-Term Strategy
Apple’s approach in Vietnam highlights a broader, long-term strategy: extending the lifespan of older products through price adjustments to capture a wider consumer base. This tactic is particularly effective in price-sensitive markets like Vietnam, were consumers frequently enough prioritize value and affordability.
This strategy isn’t new. Apple has consistently supported older iPhones with software updates and continued availability,fostering brand loyalty and providing accessible entry points into the ecosystem. The success of the iPhone 11 and 12 demonstrates the enduring appeal of these devices, even as newer models are released.
Looking ahead
The discontinuation of the iPhone 14 Plus and the surge in older iPhone sales suggest a shifting landscape in the Vietnamese smartphone market. Consumers are increasingly discerning, weighing price and features carefully. Apple’s ability to adapt to these preferences – by offering both cutting-edge technology and affordable options – will be crucial for maintaining its market position in Vietnam and beyond. The focus now shifts to the iPhone 15 Plus, which will need to prove its appeal to Vietnamese consumers to avoid a similar fate.
What are the primary security concerns for Vietnamese consumers continuing to use discontinued iPhone models?
iPhone Models Discontinued in Vietnam – A Comprehensive Guide (2025)
Officially Discontinued iPhone Models in Vietnam
Vietnam’s dynamic mobile market sees a constant shift in iPhone availability. Several older models have been officially discontinued by Apple Vietnam and authorized resellers. this means they are no longer receiving official support, updates, or readily available repairs through official channels. Here’s a breakdown of the discontinued iPhone models in Vietnam as of august 4,2025:
iPhone 6 & 6 Plus: These models reached end-of-life status several years ago and are no longer supported. Finding genuine parts is increasingly challenging.
iPhone 6s & 6s Plus: Similar to the iPhone 6 series, official support has ended. While still functional for basic tasks, software updates are unavailable, posing security risks.
iPhone SE (1st Generation): apple discontinued this model in 2022, and availability through official channels in Vietnam ceased shortly after.
iPhone 7 & 7 Plus: officially discontinued, these iPhones are no longer eligible for Apple’s repair services.
iPhone 8 & 8 Plus: Support ended in 2023, making these models increasingly obsolete in the Vietnamese market.
iPhone X: While a landmark device, the iPhone X is now discontinued, impacting its long-term usability.
iPhone XS & XS Max: These models have been removed from Apple’s official lineup in Vietnam.
iPhone 11: Discontinued in September 2023, the iPhone 11 remains popular in the second-hand market but lacks official support.
iPhone 12 mini: Apple discontinued the mini series after the iPhone 13, meaning the 12 mini is no longer available new from official sources.
iPhone 13 Pro & 13 Pro Max (Potential Concerns – See Below): While not officially discontinued as of August 2025, reports are surfacing (like those on zhihu.com) regarding performance issues with iOS 18 on these models, potentially accelerating their obsolescence and impacting resale value in Vietnam.
Why are iPhone Models Discontinued in Vietnam?
Several factors contribute to apple discontinuing iPhone models in Vietnam:
Newer model Releases: Apple regularly releases new iPhone models, leading to the discontinuation of older ones to streamline their product line.
Parts Availability: As models age,sourcing genuine replacement parts becomes challenging,impacting Apple’s ability to provide repair services.
Software support: Maintaining software updates for older devices requires meaningful resources. Apple prioritizes support for newer models.
Market Demand: Declining demand for older models influences Apple’s decision to discontinue them. Vietnamese consumers increasingly favor the latest iPhone features and technology.
Regulatory Compliance: Vietnam’s import regulations and certification requirements can also play a role in the availability of older models.
Impact on Vietnamese Consumers
The discontinuation of iPhone models in Vietnam has several implications for consumers:
Limited Repair Options: Finding authorized repair services for discontinued models becomes difficult,potentially leading to reliance on unofficial repair shops.
Security Risks: lack of software updates exposes users to security vulnerabilities.
Reduced Resale Value: Discontinued models experience a significant drop in resale value.
app Compatibility Issues: Newer apps may not be compatible with older iOS versions running on discontinued iPhones.
Access to New Features: Users miss out on the latest iPhone features and improvements.
Were to Find Discontinued iPhones in Vietnam
While officially discontinued, these iPhones are still available through alternative channels:
Second-Hand Marketplaces: Platforms like Chợ Tốt, Facebook Marketplace, and local mobile phone stores offer a wide selection of used iPhones. Exercise caution and verify the device’s authenticity and condition before purchasing.
Unofficial Retailers: Some smaller retailers may still have limited stock of discontinued models.
Imported Devices: Individuals may import discontinued iPhones from other countries. Be aware of import duties and warranty limitations.*
Tips for Buying a Discontinued iPhone in Vietnam
If you’re considering purchasing a discontinued iPhone in Vietnam, keep these tips in