Apple’s latest flagship, the iPhone 17, has finally landed in India at a price that many consumers thought was unattainable. After months of speculation and a series of price hikes across the market, Vijay Sales announced a limited‑time offer that brings the base model down to the lowest price point seen since the device’s launch. This development not only reshapes the competitive landscape for premium smartphones in the country but also raises questions about supply chain dynamics, retailer strategies, and the overall health of the Indian tech market. In the sections that follow, we explore the pricing details, compare the offer with rival brands, examine the potential impact on consumer behavior, and provide practical advice for anyone considering the purchase.
Pricing breakthrough at Vijay Sales
Vijay Sales is promoting the iPhone 17 at ₹78,990 for the 128 GB variant, a reduction of roughly ₹10,000 compared with the standard retail price listed on Apple’s Indian website. The discount applies exclusively to in‑store purchases and is limited to the first 500 customers on a first‑come, first‑served basis. The offer also includes a complimentary set of Apple‑branded accessories worth ₹2,500, adding further value for early adopters.
How the deal stacks up against the competition
To gauge the significance of Vijay Sales’ price cut, we compared the iPhone 17’s new price with flagship models from Samsung, OnePlus, and Google released in the same quarter.
| Device | Base Storage | Launch Price (₹) | Current Offer (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 | 128 GB | ₹88,990 | 78,990 |
| Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | 256 GB | ₹104,999 | ₹99,999 |
| OnePlus 12 Pro | 256 GB | ₹89,999 | ₹86,999 |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro | 128 GB | ₹79,999 | ₹77,999 |
Even after the discount, the iPhone 17 remains slightly above the Pixel 9 Pro’s price, but it undercuts Samsung’s premium offering and narrows the gap with OnePlus, positioning Apple more competitively for price‑sensitive buyers.
Supply chain and retailer strategy insights
Industry analysts attribute the price dip to a combination of factors. First, Apple’s production ramp‑up in Q4 2025 has resulted in a surplus of units ready for the Indian market. Second, Vijay Sales is leveraging its extensive brick‑and‑mortar footprint to attract foot traffic, betting that the promotional loss on the iPhone will be offset by higher ancillary sales—such as cases, headphones, and insurance plans. Finally, the move aligns with Apple’s broader push to increase market share in emerging economies, where price elasticity remains a critical barrier.
What consumers should consider before buying
- Availability window: The offer is limited to the first 500 in‑store buyers; online shoppers must verify stock at their nearest outlet.
- Warranty and service: Ensure the purchase includes Apple’s standard one‑year warranty and consider extending it with AppleCare+ for long‑term protection.
- Trade‑in options: Vijay Sales also runs a trade‑in program that can shave an additional ₹5,000 off the price if you surrender an older iPhone or Android device.
- Future price trends: With the festive season approaching, retailers may introduce further promotions, but the current deal is likely the deepest discount for the iPhone 17 in 2026.
Conclusion
The unprecedented price reduction at Vijay Sales marks a pivotal moment for premium smartphones in India. By offering the iPhone 17 at ₹78,990, Vijay Sales not only challenges rival brands on cost but also showcases a strategic shift toward volume‑driven sales in a market where affordability is increasingly decisive. Consumers stand to benefit from both the lower entry price and the bundled accessories, while Apple gains a stronger foothold in a key growth region. Prospective buyers should act quickly to secure the deal, verify warranty coverage, and weigh trade‑in options to maximize savings.
Image by: Max Fischer
https://www.pexels.com/@max-fischer
