How to Use PriceSense to Get a Cheaper iPhone 16
The iPhone 17 is out, which means the iPhone 16 is dropping in price. Learn how to use PriceSense to track deals and save big.

How to Use PriceSense to Snag a Cheaper iPhone 16 Now That the iPhone 17 Is Out
The Apple Event 2025 made waves with the launch of the new iPhone 17 and the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air. But here's the insider secret: if you're looking for an iPhone upgrade without spending $1,000+, the real winner right now is the iPhone 16.
Every time a new iPhone comes out, the previous model sees a predictable drop in price. Combine that with the power of PriceSense — a tool that tracks price drops in real time — and you've got yourself a roadmap to snagging a premium iPhone 16 for a fraction of the launch cost.
In this guide, we'll cover:
- Why the iPhone 16 is still a great buy in 2025
- How Apple's pricing history works and how long it takes for discounts to kick in
- Smart strategies for saving even more on your iPhone 16
- How PriceSense makes it effortless to buy at the perfect moment
Why the iPhone 16 Still Matters in 2025
The iPhone 17 may have stolen the spotlight, but the iPhone 16 is far from outdated. Apple designs its devices for longevity, and the iPhone 16 will remain supported for at least four to five more years of iOS updates.
Here's what makes the iPhone 16 still an excellent buy:
- A18 Bionic Chip: Blazing-fast performance for gaming, video editing, and AI features.
- ProMotion Display: A 120Hz refresh rate for silky-smooth scrolling.
- Advanced Camera System: Excellent low-light performance, cinematic video, and ProRAW for enthusiasts.
- 5G Connectivity: Full access to today's fastest networks.
- Durability: Ceramic Shield, MagSafe, and IP68 water resistance.
For most users, the leap from the iPhone 16 to the iPhone 17 isn't game-changing. That means buying an iPhone 16 now is a smart way to get 90% of the experience for 70% of the cost.
How iPhone Prices Typically Drop
Apple's pricing pattern is one of the most predictable in the tech world. Here's the timeline you can count on:
- Launch Day (September): When the new iPhone 17 hits, Apple officially drops the iPhone 16's price by $100–$150 in their own store.
- Weeks 1–8: Major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart add their own discounts. Expect bundles (free gift cards, headphones, or carrier credits).
- Month 3–6: Discounts deepen, often hitting 15–20% below launch price, especially if demand for the new iPhone is high.
- Month 9–12: Holiday shopping season kicks in. Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals can push prices down by 25% or more.
- Year 2: The cycle repeats. When the iPhone 18 launches, the iPhone 16 drops even further, often landing in the budget segment.
👉 On average, older iPhones lose 20% of their value within the first year after their successor's release. Knowing this helps you time your buy.
How PriceSense Helps You Score the Best Deal
This is where PriceSense changes the game. Instead of manually checking every store and waiting for sales, PriceSense does the heavy lifting.
Step 1: Add the iPhone 16 to Your Dashboard
- Paste product URLs from Apple, Amazon, Best Buy, carriers, or certified refurbishers.
- Track multiple sellers at once (even on the free plan).
Step 2: Monitor Across Sellers
- See who drops the price first.
- Retailers often compete, and PriceSense shows you the race in real time.
Step 3: Get Instant Alerts
- Set a target price (e.g., $699 for an iPhone 16 Pro).
- Receive app or email notifications when the price hits your number.
Step 4: Analyze Price History
- With Premium or Pro, view 30-day to 6-month price history charts.
- Learn whether a discount is a real deal or just a short-lived gimmick.
Pro Tips for Saving More on an iPhone 16
1. Shop Carriers vs. Retailers
Carriers often run aggressive promotions (BOGO, trade-in credits, 24-month financing with discounts). Compare these with retailer deals before buying.
2. Wait for Black Friday/Cyber Monday
If you can hold off until late November, you'll almost always find the deepest discounts.
3. Consider Refurbished Models
Apple Certified Refurbished iPhones look brand new, include a 1-year warranty, and save you 15–25% off retail.
4. Stack Discounts
Use cashback sites, credit card offers, or student discounts for extra savings.
5. Trade In Your Old Device
Apple, carriers, and third-party sellers all offer trade-in programs. Pairing trade-in credit with a discount can cut your upgrade cost in half.
FAQs About Buying a Cheaper iPhone 16
Q: How much cheaper will the iPhone 16 get now that the iPhone 17 is out?
Expect an immediate $100–$150 drop, with deeper cuts (20–25%) during holiday sales.
Q: Does PriceSense work for carrier deals?
Yes — as long as the offer has a product page, you can track it.
Q: How long should I wait before buying?
If you need a phone now, buy within the first 2 months. If you can wait, Black Friday or Cyber Monday is the jackpot.
Q: Is the iPhone 16 still worth it long-term?
Yes. With Apple's update cycle, you'll get at least 4–5 years of iOS support.
Q: Can I track multiple iPhones at once?
Yes. PriceSense Premium lets you track up to 5 products, and Pro up to 50.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 16 is in its prime discount phase. With the iPhone 17 stealing the spotlight, sellers will be motivated to clear old stock — and that's your chance to save.
By combining Apple's predictable pricing drops with PriceSense's smart tracking, you'll always know when and where to buy. Whether you're a deal hunter or just want to avoid overpaying, PriceSense makes saving effortless.
👉 Don't wait until the deals pass you by.