Cheaper iPhone 6S/7, iPads Likely for 2015 Release Date as U.S., China Ink Tech Tariff Deal

Apple fans are likely to get the next iPhone and iPad generations not only with enhanced design, better functionalities and more powerful components but also with cheaper price tags. And this could happen in time for the 2015 release date schedules.

Tech biggies like Apple, Hewlett-Packard (HP) and Microsoft could save between 25 to 30 per cent of manufacturing costs should the new trade pact between China and the United States is finalised.

The deal, according to The Wall Street Journal, will significantly reduce or eliminate tariff charges incurred by tech firms in doing business with China.

The end-benefits will redound to lower sticker price for gadget buyers. Apple's next iPhone, which could be called the iPhone 6S or 7, for instance could carry more tempting price tags as early as next year.

Tech giants, according to 9to5Mac, are optimistic that the agreement would be sealed before the end of the year and implementation will immediately roll out at the start of 2015.

It is likely then that the follow up to the iPhone 6, iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini 3 will be more affordable despite the bumped up specs and features.

The same is true is with Microsoft's Xbox gaming console and titles as well as Sony's PlayStation and its related products as Japan is one of the key players pushing for the trade pact's realization.

Lower manufacturing costs

Apple products stand to benefit from the deal as soon China lowers the tariff it slaps on multicomponent semiconductors (MCOs) that the company ship into the nation for the mass production of the iPhones and iPads.

When the deal takes effect, the tech giant can potentially save manufacturing expenses of up to 25 per cent, ideally leading to lower build of materials (BOM) per iPhone and iPad assembled.

The bottom line effect would be solid price tags for next year's iPhone and iPad models. Currently, the iPhone 6 starting price is $199 with contract and $649 for the unlocked version. The iPad Air 2, on the other hand, is up for grabs at $499.

Point of dispute

However, China might be reluctant to go ahead with the deal as Beijing estimates that it could lose as much as $27 billion in tax revenues once the agreement is in place.

As the same time, the Asian economic giant is banking on the promise of cornering a big slice of the estimated $1 trillion worth of business possibilities that the tariff deal would generate.

This early rumours about the next iPhone and iPad release dates are beginning to emerge with the iPhone 6S/7 supposedly boasting of a 3D glassless display panel while Air 2 sequel will likely deliver design and features centred on education and business.