News about the iPhone 16 price continues to be a hot topic of conversation among technology enthusiasts. Apple Inc. as the world's leading smartphone manufacturer, is said to open iPhone 16 pre-orders tomorrow, Friday, December 20, 2024. However, Indonesia will most likely still be left behind in terms of the official availability of this device.
Indonesia is known to be late in bringing out the latest iPhone. This is due to various obstacles, including domestic regulations such as the Domestic Component Level (TKDN). iPhone 16 has actually been released globally on October 25, 2024, with initial distribution starting one month later in major countries, including the United States and Singapore. However, until now, it is unclear when this device will be officially available in the Indonesian market.
Why isn't iPhone 16 available in Indonesia yet?
The TKDN regulation issue has again become a major stumbling block for Apple. The Indonesian government banned the official sale of iPhone 16 in the domestic market because Apple was deemed not to have met the regulatory requirements. The government also revealed an investment promise from Apple that was deemed inconsistent with the initial agreement.
The new administration of President Prabowo Subianto then took steps to tighten negotiations with Apple. The government requested additional investment commitments from the tech giant, not only through the construction of Apple Academy, but also through innovations that have a direct impact on the national economy.
Estimated Price of iPhone 16 in Indonesia
If the iPhone 16 does eventually make its way into the Indonesian market, the price offered will most likely be higher compared to neighboring countries such as Singapore. The main factors that affect the price are import duties, import taxes and additional distribution costs. The following is the estimated price of the iPhone 16 in Indonesia based on previous pricing patterns:
- iPhone 16 (128 GB): IDR 16,999,000
- iPhone 16 (256 GB): IDR 19,499,000
- iPhone 16 (512 GB): IDR 22,999,000
In comparison, in Singapore, the price of the iPhone 16 is expected to range:
- iPhone 16 (128 GB): SGD 1,499 (approx. IDR 17,500,000)
- iPhone 16 (256 GB): SGD 1,699 (approx. IDR 19,800,000)
- iPhone 16 (512 GB): SGD 1,999 (approx. IDR 23,300,000)
The price difference is often the reason why many Indonesians choose to buy iPhones directly from Singapore or other countries that are faster to get stock and offer more competitive prices.
When can iPhone 16 be ordered in Indonesia?
Although there is no certainty when the iPhone 16 will be officially available in Indonesia, some speculations suggest that this device will only be available in the first quarter of 2025. This largely depends on the agreement between the government and Apple regarding TKDN regulations and the additional investment requested.
Also Read: Apple Products 2024: The Best and the Worst, iPhone 16 to Vision Pro
However, the news of pre-orders in other countries, including Singapore, is a breath of fresh air for iPhone fans. Those who can't wait will usually look for ways to get the device through the black market or jastip services. Unfortunately, this method is often not recommended due to the risk of losing the official warranty and incompatibility of the device with the network in Indonesia.
Apple's Investment and Its Impact on Indonesia
The request for additional investment commitment from the Indonesian government under President Prabowo Subianto aims to increase Apple's contribution to the local economy. The construction of the Apple Academy that has been carried out is considered not significant enough to meet the TKDN regulation standards. The government hopes Apple can expand the scope of its investment, such as establishing a manufacturing facility or research and development (R&D) center in Indonesia.
This move is expected to have a positive impact not only for the government, but also for consumers. With more components being produced domestically, the price of Apple devices in the future may be more competitive.
Summary
For those of you who want to own an iPhone 16, the news of tomorrow's pre-order in Singapore might be the moment you've been waiting for. However, if you prefer to buy officially in Indonesia, you'll have to be patient until there's more clarity on TKDN regulations and investment commitments. Apple.
The price difference between Indonesia and Singapore remains a consideration for consumers. Whatever your choice, make sure to buy from a trusted source to get a quality product with an official warranty.