It’s official: iPhone 5C – For the Colorful

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In their September 10, 2013 event, Apple officially released the iPhone 5C, along with the launch of it’s more expensive and sleeker sister – the iPhone 5S. Having upgraded to the iPhone 5 almost nine (9) months ago, I’m not too excited about this launch.

I won’t be missing much by not upgrading this year. Buti na lang.

But that is not to say that I don’t like the new iPhones. Even with all the trash talk around Apple copping out by opting for a plastic build, and the choice of candy colors, I actually like the iPhone 5C.

If I didn’t already own an iPhone 5, I’d consider 5C. Of course, I’d probably end up with a 5S, but I’d consider it. If I had a younger sibling still in school that I owed 16 years of presents for – I’d get it for her in time for Christmas. Good thing I don’t have one.

Why let Apple rob me of my hard earned money?

Critics say that only the dumb-witted would fall for the 5C when there are better Android handsets at the same price range – or cheaper. Well that’s not what I’m looking for – I don’t get excited for every Samsung or HTC launch. I am happy with my iOS handset and only look for upgrades every two years or so. Users of the iPhone 3G/4/4S would likely be happy with this.

Who else would the 5C be good for? My Mom.

But the iPhone 5C is still expensive.

Obviously, C is not for CHEAP. With very similar specs to the iPhone 5 (Yugatech has a comparison table), the 5C is priced at just about $130 dollars lower than the 5S. Therein lies the problem. When targeting ‘emerging’ markets, price points are  just as critical as design. The 5C might be good enough for existing users of older iPhones, but not affordable enough to convince the uninitiated to give iOS a try.