If you have been waiting for a major iPhone price drop before stepping into New Year 2026, this week has delivered one of the most surprising deals of the year. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 15, two of Apple’s best-selling models in India, are now selling at their lowest-ever online prices — and without requiring bank offers, promo codes, or exchange conditions. Flat discounts on popular iPhones are rare, which is why the current pricing has quickly become the talk of the Indian smartphone market.
What makes this moment even more interesting is the backdrop: the iPhone 17 series is already officially available. As expected, once a new generation arrives, the previous models slide into a more attractive price bracket, but seeing two consecutive generations drop below Rs 60,000 simultaneously is unusual. The real question buyers are asking is simple: with both models selling at such aggressive prices, which iPhone offers better long-term value as we enter 2026?
iPhone 16 and iPhone 15: Prices Fall Below Rs 60,000
The iPhone 16, which officially starts at Rs 69,900 in India, has been listed at Rs 57,999 on Flipkart’s mobile app for the pink colour variant. Other colours remain slightly higher but still stay under the Rs 60,000 threshold. This is a direct price cut of over Rs 11,000, making it one of the strongest iPhone deals of the year under Flipkart’s Buy Buy Sale.
If you miss out on the app-specific pricing, Vijay Sales is offering the iPhone 16 for Rs 66,490, with an additional Rs 4,000 discount available for SBI and ICICI cardholders. Even after offers, it lands around Rs 62,490 — still competitive but not as compelling as Flipkart’s deal. Based on Apple’s past pricing trends, there is also a high chance the iPhone 16 may see further dips in early 2026.
Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 has also received a considerable cut on Flipkart’s mobile app, dropping to Rs 51,999 without any conditions. This brings the difference between the two models to around Rs 6,000 — a relatively small gap considering the upgrades Apple introduced with the iPhone 16.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone 15: What Has Actually Improved?
Although both iPhones share several similarities, Apple has refined the hardware and design philosophy with the iPhone 16.
1. Modern Design and New Controls
The most visible change is the vertical camera layout on the iPhone 16, replacing the diagonal layout from the iPhone 15. This brings the device visually in line with newer-generation Apple models.
Apple has also removed the classic mute switch on the iPhone 16 and replaced it with the Action Button, which lets users customise quick shortcuts for tasks such as launching the camera, opening translation tools, starting voice memos, and more.
Additionally, the new Camera Control button makes one-handed photography easier, giving the iPhone 16 a more modern and creator-friendly design approach.
2. Improved Camera Capabilities
While both iPhones have the same megapixel count, the real-world upgrades are noticeable on the iPhone 16. Apple has added:
These enhancements make the iPhone 16 a more capable camera device, especially for users who rely heavily on mobile photography or short-form content creation.
3. A Faster, More Future-Proof Chip
The iPhone 16 is powered by the A18 chip, while the iPhone 15 uses the A16 Bionic. The performance gap is not dramatic in everyday tasks, but the A18 is significantly more efficient and is built to support Apple’s future features.
Most importantly, the A18 chip unlocks Apple Intelligence features like:
These features are central to Apple’s long-term AI strategy, making the A18 a future-proof option.
4. Better Battery Life
Apple claims:
This difference seems small on paper, but during heavy usage, the iPhone 16 consistently lasts longer, thanks to the efficiency of the A18 chip.
So, Which iPhone Should You Buy Before New Year 2026?
When evaluating long-term value, the iPhone 16 clearly stands ahead. For an extra Rs 6,000, it offers:
For most buyers — especially those upgrading from iPhone 12, 13, or earlier — the iPhone 16 is the smarter choice for 2026 and beyond.
However, the iPhone 15 is still relevant. If your budget is firmly capped around Rs 52,000, or if you are a casual user prioritising stability over new features, the iPhone 15 continues to deliver a reliable, flagship-grade Apple experience.
👉 Also Read: Apple iOS 26.2 Release Date.
Final Verdict: iPhone 16 Wins on Value
If your budget allows, choosing the iPhone 16 is a decision that ensures longer support, better performance, and a more future-ready smartphone. The iPhone 15 remains a solid option for budget-conscious buyers, but the current pricing difference strongly favours the iPhone 16 for anyone seeking maximum value heading into New Year 2026.
