Apple has finally opened Australian pre-orders for its new iPhone XR – the most affordable of its 2018 smartphone trio, releasing nearly a month after the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max.
iPhone XR pre-orders opened 6:01 pm last Friday (AEDT), with the device costing A$1,229 for 64GB, A$1,299 for 128GB, and $1,479 for 256GB on Apple’s website here.
As previously reported, some commentators claim Apple has faced production issues over component parts, causing a delay in the device’s release date.
Whilst pre-orders have opened, the iPhone XR is not expected to hit retail shelves until October 26.
Local telcos – such as Telstra, Optus and Vodafone – have also released pricing options, available to lease or buy on a postpaid plans from as low as A$34/month.
As previously reported, the ‘affordable’ iPhone XR is tipped to be Apple’s best selling smartphone this year, with some commentators predicting supply constraints.
According to MacRumors, shipping dates for some iPhone XR models have already been pushed back over two weeks internationally, following strong demand.
Yellow, Coral and Red have proved to be extremely popular, with some commentators questioning sufficient stock.
Telstra’s cheapest iPhone XR (64GB) plan costs $94 per month ($59 plan + $35 phone payment), on a standard 24 month postpaid plan.
(Further information on Telstra’s website here.)
Vodafone is has allowed consumers to separate phone repayments from their selected plan, with the iPhone XR (64GB) available on an 36 month interest-free payment plan for $34.13 per month.
(Further information on Vodafone’s website here).
Optus’ cheapest iPhone XR (64GB) plan is $77 per month ($45 plan + $32 phone payment) on a 4GB My Plan Plus 24 month postpaid plan.
(Further information on Optus’ website here).
Despite being Apple’s most affordable 2018 model, the iPhone XR still packs in many features found in the iPhone XS – e.g. Apple’s new A12 Bionic chip.
Notable differences include an LCD screen (versus OLED), and single 12MP rear camera lens, and 7MP TrueDepth ‘selfie’ camera.
The iPhone XR features Face ID, 4K video recording, dual SIM (eSIM and nano SIM compatible) and wireless charging.
