South Koreans may be able to buy the iPhone 16 in September, at the same time as the United States. If so, it will be the first time the new iPhone has been available at the same time in the two countries since the release of the iPhone 3GS.
The iPhone traditionally launches on day one in a few key regions, with the rest of the world seeing a rollout of the device in the weeks that follow. The device is usually rolled out in South Korea a few weeks, or even a month after many other major markets.
However, we could see a change to that policy with this fall’s release of the iPhone 16 lineup, according to a report by The Korea Times.
One industry official told the publication that preparations are underway for the iPhone release. However, carriers cannot confirm release dates before Apple makes its official announcement.
Current rumors indicate that the launch of the iPhone 16 could occur on September 10.
Another source told The Korea Times that the early launch “remains at the stage of a likely rumor,” admitting that it is still “hard to predict” until Apple’s launch.
The delay in the rollout of a new iPhone in South Korea has previously been due to Apple’s confidentiality policies, as well as Korea’s certification system.
The National Radio Research Agency discloses information on new devices through its website. Submitting the iPhone to testing through the NRRA could mean specifications leak ahead of the launch.
Apple may release the iPhone in South Korea ahead of its traditional timeline, as it is seeing excellent progress in the country. In the fiscal year ending September 2023, Apple saw a 550% increase in operating profit year-over-year. Also, an aging population bodes well for Apple in South Korea, as South Koreans under the age of 30 tend to buy an Android device, with half of those users switching over to an iPhone later on.
