: Some mid-year color refreshes or minor software updates don't justify a full-price purchase if a major release is only a few months away. Summary of 2026 Best Times Recommended Month Newest Tech Buy at launch for peak trade-in value. Holiday Value Use Black Friday for gift card bundles. Post-Holiday Deals January/February Look for clearance on the iPhone 17 series. Lowest Cash Price Best for refurbished iPhone 12 or 13 models.

: Retailers often clear out excess holiday stock, particularly for standard models and the budget-friendly iPhone 16e . For Budget and Refurbished Buyers:

: This is the "regret window." You will likely pay full price for a phone that will be "old" and discounted by $100 or more within 30 days.