In Russia, the practicality of using older iPhone models and other Apple devices has become noticeably more limited for many users, according to industry insight focused on the local repair and resale market. The central challenge today is the rising cost of repairs for older and newer iPhone generations alike. As Apple gradually curtails its service program within the Russian Federation, spare parts are priced higher and parts delivery times lengthen, affecting both official service centers and independent workshops.
The battery remains the most vulnerable component in iPhones, with certain devices losing up to a fifth of their capacity within roughly 18 months. Replacing this key element is not inexpensive, compounding the total cost of ownership for owners who wish to maintain peak device performance. Moreover, the market price for the newest iPhone models in Russia can be strikingly favorable relative to some nearby regions, sometimes available at roughly half the price seen in Turkey and about 15 percent cheaper than in Germany. These price differentials influence buying decisions for tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
Despite these friction points, Russians are not abandoning Apple products in 2023. Many users continue to rely on iPhones, even when some services issued by Apple are temporarily inaccessible in practice—such as certain payment capabilities within the App Store or mobile wallet features like Apple Pay. A significant portion of iPhone owners chose to stay with Apple, reflecting strong brand loyalty; approximately two-thirds of iPhone users opted not to switch to competing brands, a figure that stands out in the landscape of smartphone brands.
The enduring loyalty is driven by the perception of reliability across Apple devices and the expectation that Apple’s ecosystem will continue to function in Russia in the foreseeable future. Users value the continuity of hardware and software updates, as well as the overall experience of using Apple products, which sustains demand even under regional restrictions. The broader ecosystem around Apple devices—applications, services, and cross-device compatibility—remains a central reason people remain invested in the brand.
There is also a sense that the accessibility of diagnostic tools and programs contributes to ongoing engagement. In recent developments, Apple extended access to diagnostic services so that a wider audience could benefit from device health assessments, a factor that influences consumer confidence and long-term ownership decisions in the local market. This shift illustrates how Apple’s global strategy continues to influence consumer behavior in Russia, even amid regulatory and logistical challenges. (Source: Socialbites)