Apple officially discontinued the iPhone X in September 2018, shortly after releasing the iPhone XS and XR models.
The Launch and Lifecycle of the iPhone X
The iPhone X marked a significant milestone for Apple when it launched in November 2017. It was the first iPhone to feature an OLED display, a near bezel-less design, and Face ID technology, setting a new standard for smartphones. This model commemorated the 10th anniversary of the iPhone line, hence the Roman numeral “X” representing 10.
Despite its groundbreaking features, the iPhone X had a relatively short production lifespan. Apple maintained its availability for about a year before announcing newer models. The release of the iPhone XS and XR in September 2018 effectively signaled Apple’s shift towards next-generation devices.
Why Did Apple Discontinue The iPhone X So Soon?
Apple’s product strategy often involves phasing out older models quickly after launching successors. The iPhone X’s discontinuation wasn’t unexpected given this pattern. Several reasons contributed to this decision:
- Product Line Streamlining: By discontinuing the iPhone X, Apple reduced overlap between models and focused marketing on newer phones.
- Cost Considerations: The iPhone X’s OLED screen and advanced components made it expensive to produce compared to later models optimized for mass production.
- Technological Advancements: Newer models featured improved processors (A12 Bionic chip), better cameras, and refined Face ID, making them more appealing.
This approach helps Apple maintain a premium brand image while encouraging customers to upgrade regularly.
Official Timeline: When Was The iPhone X Discontinued?
Apple officially stopped selling the iPhone X through its website and official retail channels in September 2018. However, third-party sellers continued offering new or refurbished units for some time.
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| September 12, 2017 | Announcement | Apple unveils the iPhone X alongside XS and XR previews. |
| November 3, 2017 | Release Date | The iPhone X becomes available for purchase worldwide. |
| September 12, 2018 | Discontinuation Announcement | Apple discontinues the iPhone X after launching XS and XR. |
| Late 2018 – Early 2019 | Third-party Sales Continue | Refurbished and new stock sold by non-Apple retailers. |
The Impact on Users and Market Availability
The discontinuation didn’t mean immediate unavailability. Many users continued purchasing the device through carriers or third-party vendors. However, software updates gradually phased out as newer hardware took precedence.
For those still using an iPhone X today, Apple continues providing software support but with diminishing feature updates compared to newer devices. Battery replacements and repairs remain available through authorized service centers.
Comparing The iPhone X To Its Successors
Understanding why Apple discontinued the iPhone X requires comparing it with its immediate successors: the iPhone XS and XR. These devices built upon what made the iPhone X successful but introduced improvements that justified replacing it.
Key Differences Between iPhone X, XS, and XR
- Processor: The XS and XR use Apple’s A12 Bionic chip versus A11 Bionic in the iPhone X, offering faster performance.
- Cameras: While the XS features dual cameras similar to the X but improved sensors; XR uses a single lens but includes advanced computational photography.
- Display: The XS retains OLED technology like the X but with better color accuracy; XR opts for LCD to reduce costs.
- Battery Life: Both XS and XR provide longer battery life than the original iPhone X.
These upgrades made it logical for Apple to shift focus away from selling an older model that lacked these refinements.
The Price Factor in Discontinuation Decisions
At launch, the iPhone X carried a premium price tag around $999 USD. With newer models offering more features at similar or slightly higher prices, customers naturally gravitated towards them.
The cost to manufacture OLED displays was high initially but became more efficient over time. Still, early adoption costs contributed to Apple’s decision to retire this model in favor of streamlined production with newer devices.
The Ongoing Debate: Is Apple Discontinuing The Iphone X?
Even years after discontinuation, questions about whether Apple might revive or reintroduce an updated version of this iconic phone persist among enthusiasts.
The Reality Behind Rumors And Speculation
Rumors occasionally circulate about potential reboots or special editions inspired by earlier models like the iPhone X. However:
- Apple has not announced any plans to bring back this specific model.
- The company’s product roadmap focuses on newer technologies such as foldable screens or advanced camera systems.
- Backward compatibility with parts is limited due to rapid technological shifts.
In short, “Is Apple Discontinuing The Iphone X?” is answered definitively — yes, they already did it years ago without plans for revival.
The Secondary Market For The iPhone X Today
Despite official discontinuation, demand remains on resale platforms like eBay or Swappa where used or refurbished units trade hands regularly. Collectors or budget-conscious buyers sometimes prefer this phone due to its unique design and features not found in current models.
However:
- Prices vary widely depending on condition.
- Warranty coverage is absent unless purchased through certified refurbishers.
- Software support will eventually end as newer operating systems require updated hardware capabilities.
This secondary market presence keeps interest alive but doesn’t change Apple’s official stance on discontinuation.
Key Takeaways: Is Apple Discontinuing The Iphone X?
➤ Apple has officially stopped producing the iPhone X.
➤ Support and software updates continue for existing users.
➤ Newer models offer improved features and performance.
➤ iPhone X remains available through some third-party sellers.
➤ Apple encourages upgrading to the latest iPhone versions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apple discontinuing the iPhone X?
Apple officially discontinued the iPhone X in September 2018, shortly after releasing the iPhone XS and XR models. This move was part of Apple’s strategy to focus on newer devices and streamline their product lineup.
Why did Apple discontinue the iPhone X so soon?
The iPhone X had a relatively short production lifespan due to its high production costs and overlap with newer models. Apple aimed to promote devices with improved technology like the A12 Bionic chip, better cameras, and enhanced Face ID features.
When was the iPhone X discontinued by Apple?
Apple stopped selling the iPhone X through official channels in September 2018. Despite this, third-party retailers continued to offer new and refurbished units for some time after the official discontinuation.
Does discontinuing the iPhone X mean it is no longer supported?
While Apple discontinued sales of the iPhone X, it continued to provide software updates for existing users for a period. However, over time, support may diminish as newer models take precedence.
How has discontinuing the iPhone X affected its market availability?
The discontinuation reduced Apple’s direct sales of the iPhone X but did not eliminate its availability entirely. Many users still purchased it through carriers or third-party vendors even after Apple ceased official sales.