Why Apple Should Not Build A Cheaper iPhone

The WWDC has come and gone, and we’re hearing and seeing all about iOS 7 left and right. There are those who can’t stop bashing the “unfinished” look of what is essentially an unfinished OS (duh), and there are those who are loving it and the potential it offers. While huge changes and announcements have been made, the Apple rumor mill is not taking a break. One of the hottest topics today is the “fact” that Apple is working on a cheaper iPhone; and not only that, the company is supposed to be making the best smartphone in multiple colors.

Reuters reports that Apple is currently looking at iPhones with bigger screens – 4.7 inches and 5.7 inches to be specific – and that there might be five to six color variations. More so, the site reports that the new iPhone line will cost only $99.

This report has, of course, been picked up by the usual suspects. Reactions vary from “it’s hard to take at face value” to excitement. After all, who wouldn’t want to pay less than a hundred bucks for an iPhone?

While I do love the idea of lower prices for the iPhone, I have to say that I am totally against this move – if Apple is indeed working on a cheaper iPhone.

I really only have one reason why Apple should not build a cheaper iPhone.

If there is truth to the rumors, the cheaper iPhone will be made of plastic. That makes sense – they will save on the materials. However, that takes away one of the main things that make the iPhone such a wonderful phone: the durable casing that outlasts practically anything other plastic-based phone manufacturers have created.

Of course, there is also the fact that iOS is simply beautiful and functional, not requiring much of the user. There is the fact that iOS apps are awesome. Those factors probably won’t be taken away from the cheaper iPhone.

I am afraid, though, that if Apple goes this route, it will lead to the decline in the device’s worth to the user. Give me the durable, metal casing any time. I’m willing to pay a little more for that.

[Image via 9to5Mac]