Apple officially discontinued the iPhone X in 2018, replacing it with newer models and halting its production.
The Timeline Behind iPhone X’s Discontinuation
Apple’s iPhone X made waves when it launched in November 2017. It was the company’s flagship device, marking the 10th anniversary of the iPhone with a radical redesign. However, despite its initial hype and popularity, Apple discontinued the iPhone X less than two years later. The official discontinuation came in September 2018, shortly after the launch of the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR.
The decision to discontinue wasn’t sudden or arbitrary. Apple follows a clear product lifecycle strategy where older models are phased out to make room for newer technology and designs. The iPhone X was unique because it introduced Face ID, an OLED screen, and a near bezel-less front — features that quickly became standard in subsequent models.
By discontinuing the iPhone X, Apple streamlined its product lineup and focused on promoting devices with improved hardware and software capabilities. This move also aligned with their goal of simplifying choices for consumers while pushing sales toward their latest innovations.
Reasons Behind Apple’s Move to Discontinue iPhone X
Several factors contributed to Apple’s decision to stop producing the iPhone X:
- Product Line Evolution: The launch of newer models like the iPhone XS series made the iPhone X less competitive.
- Production Costs: The iPhone X featured expensive components such as its OLED display and TrueDepth camera system, which made manufacturing costly.
- Supply Chain Optimization: Simplifying production by focusing on fewer models helps Apple reduce complexity and costs.
- Market Positioning: By discontinuing older models, Apple encourages customers to upgrade to higher-margin devices.
Apple’s strategy often includes phasing out older flagship phones soon after releasing successors. This keeps their lineup fresh and maintains high demand for newer devices.
Comparing iPhone X With Its Successors
Understanding how the iPhone X stacks up against subsequent models highlights why discontinuation was a logical step for Apple. Here’s a detailed comparison of key specifications between the iPhone X (2017), iPhone XS (2018), and iPhone XR (2018):
| Feature | iPhone X | iPhone XS / XR |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 5.8-inch OLED Super Retina | XS: 5.8-inch OLED Super Retina XR: 6.1-inch LCD Liquid Retina |
| Processor | A11 Bionic chip | A12 Bionic chip (faster & efficient) |
| Cameras | Dual 12MP rear cameras (wide + telephoto) |
XS: Dual 12MP rear cameras (improved sensors) XR: Single 12MP wide camera |
| Battery Life | Up to 21 hours talk time | XS: Up to 20 hours XR: Up to 25 hours talk time (better battery) |
| Selling Price at Launch* | $999 USD | $999 USD (XS) $749 USD (XR) |
| Face ID & Security | TrueDepth Face ID system (1st gen) | Improved Face ID (faster & secure) |
| *Prices vary by storage options and region. | ||
This table clearly shows how Apple improved performance, battery life, and camera capabilities in successors while maintaining or lowering price points on some models like XR. These enhancements naturally overshadowed the original iPhone X.
The Impact of Discontinuation on Consumers and Market Availability
When Apple discontinues a model like the iPhone X, it no longer sells it through official channels such as Apple Stores or authorized resellers. However, this doesn’t mean the phone vanishes overnight from all markets.
Many third-party sellers continue offering new or refurbished units for months or even years after discontinuation. This creates a secondary market where buyers can still find the device but often at fluctuating prices depending on supply and demand.
Apple also continues providing software updates for discontinued models for several years after stopping production. For example, despite discontinuation in 2018, the iPhone X received updates through at least 2020-2021, ensuring security patches and new features remain accessible.
That said, repair parts for discontinued phones become scarcer over time as manufacturers shift focus toward current models. This can affect long-term maintenance costs for users holding onto older devices.
The Broader Context: How Apple Handles Product Discontinuations
Apple discontinues several products each year as part of its regular refresh cycle. Flagship smartphones typically have around a one-to-two-year active sales window before being replaced or phased out.
This approach differs from some competitors who might keep older models available longer at reduced prices. Apple prefers offering fewer options that represent distinct tiers rather than overwhelming customers with many overlapping choices.
Here are some examples from recent years:
- The original iPhone SE (2016): Discontinued after about two years when replaced by SE (2020).
- iPad Pro (1st gen): Phased out within two years after newer versions launched.
- MacBook Air Retina (2018): Replaced by updated MacBook Airs within roughly two years.
This pattern highlights how Apple maintains a relatively fast product cycle while focusing on innovation rather than prolonged availability of older generations.
The Effect on Resale Value of Discontinued Models like iPhone X
Discontinuation impacts resale value in interesting ways:
- Soon After Discontinuation: Prices often dip slightly as newer models attract buyers.
- Matured Market: Limited availability combined with decent specs can keep prices stable or even increase among collectors or fans.
For example, although discontinued in late 2018, some pristine-condition unlocked iPhone X units maintained respectable resale values through early 2020 due to demand for premium used phones at lower cost than current flagships.
However, as newer generations introduce better tech every year—like improved cameras or faster chips—the resale value naturally declines over time.
Key Takeaways: Is Apple Discontinuing Iphone X?
➤ Apple has officially stopped iPhone X production.
➤ Newer models have replaced iPhone X in the lineup.
➤ iPhone X remains supported with software updates.
➤ Refurbished iPhone X units may still be available.
➤ Apple focuses on promoting latest iPhone technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apple discontinuing iPhone X?
Apple officially discontinued the iPhone X in September 2018, less than two years after its launch. The company stopped production to focus on newer models like the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, streamlining its product lineup and encouraging customers to upgrade.
Why did Apple discontinue the iPhone X?
Apple discontinued the iPhone X due to high production costs and the introduction of newer, more advanced models. The iPhone X’s expensive OLED display and TrueDepth camera made manufacturing costly, and Apple aimed to simplify its offerings while promoting devices with improved features.
When was the iPhone X discontinued by Apple?
The iPhone X was officially discontinued in September 2018. This decision came shortly after Apple launched its successors, including the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, marking a clear shift in their product lifecycle strategy.
How does discontinuing the iPhone X benefit Apple?
Discontinuing the iPhone X helps Apple reduce production complexity and costs by focusing on fewer models. It also encourages consumers to buy newer devices with better hardware, supporting Apple’s goal of maintaining a fresh product lineup and maximizing profit margins.
Are there any features from the iPhone X that continue in newer models?
Yes, many features introduced with the iPhone X, such as Face ID, OLED screens, and near bezel-less designs, have become standard in subsequent models like the iPhone XS series. These innovations set a foundation for Apple’s future flagship devices.