Friday, 25 April 2025
31.1 C
Singapore
36.6 C
Thailand
28.5 C
Indonesia
29.2 C
Philippines

South Korea might join the first wave for the iPhone 16 launch

South Korea may join the first wave of countries for the iPhone 16 launch, thanks to strong market demand and certification system changes.

South Korea might be among the first countries to launch the Apple iPhone 16 this year.

According to anonymous sources within the telecom industry, several South Korean media outlets suggest that the iPhone 16 could arrive in the country earlier than usual. An industry official informed The Korea Times that local telecom companies could not comment on the matter due to Apple’s strict confidentiality policies. Despite this, preparations are already underway for an earlier-than-expected release.

Apple usually launches new iPhones in South Korea several weeks after the first wave of countries, due to the country’s certification system. The National Radio Research Agency in South Korea requires all electronic devices to be certified and their information published on its website. This process could reveal the new iPhones’ specifications even before Apple’s official announcement.

Reasons for the change

Several factors have been mentioned for this possible change in Apple’s strategy. Firstly, South Korea has a solid base of iPhone users, especially among the younger population, with significant spending power.

Secondly, the South Korean market is increasingly considered a testing ground for major brands. Since the iPhone is seen as a status symbol in many countries, including South Korea, it makes business sense for Apple to include the country in the first wave of launches to maintain or grow its market share.

Lastly, the declining demand for iPhones in China is believed to allow Apple to allocate more stock for an earlier release in South Korea.

Expected launch details

Bloomberg reported a few days ago that Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 16 on September 10 (Tuesday). If past trends indicate, the iPhone 16 will be available in the first wave of countries on September 20 (Friday).

With South Korea potentially included in the initial launch wave, Apple fans in the country might not have to wait as long as in previous years to get their hands on the latest iPhone.

Hot this week

xAI’s Grok chatbot now lets you ask questions about what you see

Grok’s new Vision tool lets iPhone users ask questions about what they see. Updates also add real-time voice search and memory features.

Proofpoint launches unified cybersecurity platform to cut costs and tackle multichannel threats

Proofpoint launches Prime Threat Protection, a unified cybersecurity platform tackling human risk and multichannel threats while reducing costs.

Microsoft highlights growing AI-assisted scams and offers advice on how to stay safe

Microsoft’s latest report warns of rising AI-driven scams and outlines new tools and tips to help users stay safe online.

Anbernic stops US shipments amid rising tariff concerns

Anbernic halts US shipments due to rising tariffs, urging customers to order from its US warehouse to avoid high import duties.

Veeam report reveals nearly 70% of organisations still targeted by ransomware

Nearly 70% of organisations were hit by ransomware last year, says Veeam, urging stronger recovery strategies and proactive resilience.

OpenAI says it would consider buying Google Chrome if offered

OpenAI told a judge it would be open to buying Google Chrome if it were sold as part of the US antitrust case against Google.

WhatsApp adds new Advanced Chat Privacy feature to boost group chat security

WhatsApp's new Advanced Chat Privacy feature helps stop group chat content from being shared or saved outside the app.

Global PC shipments rise 6.7% in early 2025 as AI and tariffs drive demand

PC shipments rose 6.7% in Q1 2025, boosted by AI demand and tariff concerns, but growth is expected to slow later in the year.

GITEX to launch in Vietnam, unlocking growth in Southeast Asia’s digital economy

GITEX announces debut in Vietnam for October 2026, spotlighting its growing tech economy and boosting Southeast Asia’s digital innovation.

Related Articles

Popular Categories