For the first time in Apple’s recent history, the iPhone 16 is being sold in India for less than Rs 40,000 — but only if you jump through enough hoops. Croma, the Tata Group-owned electronics retailer, is offering the iPhone 16 (128GB) at an effective price of Rs 39,990 during its Black Friday sale 2025, India, running until November 30. That’s not a typo. The phone, which launched at Rs 79,900 in September, now costs less than half. But here’s the thing: you won’t get that price unless you trade in your old phone, use a specific credit card, and apply a coupon. It’s not a discount. It’s a puzzle.
How the Rs 39,990 Deal Actually Works
The base price on Croma’s website is Rs 66,490 — already Rs 13,410 off the launch price. Then comes the stacking: up to Rs 16,000 for trading in an older iPhone (like the iPhone 15), Rs 4,000 in bank discounts (with HDFC, ICICI, or SBI cards), and a Rs 1,500 coupon for accessories. Add them all up, and you land at Rs 39,990. Some shoppers even reported hitting Rs 36,650 by maxing out exchange offers on flawless, box-included iPhone 15s, according to Financial Express. But here’s the catch: Croma’s own website warns that exchange values vary by condition, model, and availability. It’s not guaranteed. You might walk in with your iPhone 14 and walk out with only Rs 8,000 off.
The iPhone 16 isn’t a slouch. It runs Apple’s new A18 chipset, supports 25W MagSafe wireless charging, and has a camera system that finally nails low-light portraits. Software support? Apple promises seven years — meaning this phone will likely get updates until 2032. That’s more than most Android flagships offer. But the real twist? You don’t have to settle for it.
The iPhone 17 Is Already Here — And Cheaper Than You Think
While everyone’s buzzing about the Rs 39,990 iPhone 16, Croma is quietly selling the iPhone 17 for Rs 45,990. That’s just Rs 6,000 more. And unlike the iPhone 16, the iPhone 17 comes with a new 48MP main sensor, faster Face ID, and a slightly larger battery. It’s not a revolution — but it’s a meaningful upgrade. India Today’s analysis put it bluntly: “If you can stretch your budget, the iPhone 17 is the smarter buy.” And they’re right. For Rs 6,000 more, you get a newer chip, better cameras, and another year of software support. The iPhone 16’s discount feels urgent. The iPhone 17’s price feels fair.
Apple doesn’t usually slash prices this fast. Historically, new iPhones hold their value for 9–12 months before major discounts. This is only six months after launch. That tells you two things: one, Apple’s supply chain is overproducing; two, they’re already moving customers to the next model. The iPhone 17 isn’t a surprise — it’s a signal. And Croma’s deal? It’s not generosity. It’s inventory clearance.
How Other Retailers Compare — And Why Croma Still Wins
Amazon lists the iPhone 16 at Rs 66,900, with a max effective price of Rs 41,550 after exchange and bank offers. Flipkart? Rs 69,900 base, but they’ll give you up to Rs 27,450 off if you trade in a perfect iPhone 15. That’s tempting — but only if you have that exact model. Reliance Digital’s Rs 60,900 price (after Rs 3,000 bank discount) feels like a middle ground: no stacking, no guesswork. But none of them hit Rs 39,990. Croma is the only one making the math work at that level.
And they’re sweetening the pot. A 10% discount on MagSafe chargers? Free silicone case with purchase? These aren’t just bonuses — they’re psychological nudges. You’re not buying a phone. You’re buying a “deal.” And that’s what makes Black Friday so powerful.
Should You Buy It? Three Questions to Ask
Before you click ‘Buy Now,’ ask yourself:
- Do you actually need the latest features? If your iPhone 14 still works, the iPhone 16’s upgrades are subtle — not essential.
- Can you trade in a recent model? If you’re stuck with an iPhone 12 or older, your exchange value might be Rs 4,000, not Rs 16,000. That changes everything.
- Are you okay with buying a phone that’s already being replaced? The iPhone 17 is here. The iPhone 18 will likely arrive in September 2026. This phone is already on its way out.
If you’re upgrading from an iPhone 12 or older, and you can max out your exchange, then yes — this is a steal. But if you’re on the fence? Wait. Or pay Rs 6,000 more. The iPhone 17 won’t be discounted for another 8 months. And by then, you’ll be glad you didn’t settle.
What’s Next? The Race to the Bottom
Apple’s strategy is clear: push the iPhone 16 hard now, so the iPhone 17 becomes the new baseline. This isn’t just a sale — it’s a controlled devaluation. Competitors like Samsung and Xiaomi are watching closely. If Apple can move 5 million iPhone 16 units at Rs 40,000, they’ll pressure Android makers to slash prices too. That’s good for consumers. But it also means the next flagship will launch even higher — because Apple needs to make up the margin somewhere.
Meanwhile, Croma’s aggressive pricing could be a sign of deeper retail shifts. Tata Group is betting big on electronics. This sale isn’t just about iPhones — it’s about building loyalty. If you buy an iPhone 16 from Croma today, you’re more likely to buy your next phone — and your TV, your tablet, your smartwatch — from them too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rs 39,990 iPhone 16 price real, or just a marketing trick?
The price is real — but only if you meet all conditions: trading in a qualifying iPhone (15 or newer), using a participating bank card, and applying the coupon. Many shoppers end up paying Rs 45,000–48,000 after exchange values are adjusted. Croma’s website explicitly states exchange offers vary by condition, so don’t assume the full Rs 16,000.
Why is the iPhone 17 priced so close to the iPhone 16’s sale price?
Apple is using pricing psychology. By making the iPhone 17 just Rs 6,000 more than the discounted iPhone 16, they make the newer model feel like a small upgrade — not a leap. The iPhone 17 has better cameras, a newer chip, and longer software support, making it the smarter long-term buy for most users.
Can I get the same deal on Amazon or Flipkart?
No. Amazon’s best effective price is Rs 41,550, and Flipkart’s is around Rs 42,450 after maximum exchange. Only Croma offers the full Rs 16,000 exchange bonus alongside bank discounts and coupons. Other retailers don’t stack offers as aggressively — and their exchange values are often lower.
Is it worth buying the iPhone 16 over the iPhone 15?
Only if your iPhone 15 is over two years old. The iPhone 16 adds AI-powered photo enhancements, faster charging, and better thermal management — but the camera and screen are nearly identical. If you’re upgrading from an iPhone 14 or earlier, the jump is noticeable. From iPhone 15? Not enough to justify the extra cost unless the deal is irresistible.
Will the iPhone 16 price drop further before Christmas?
Unlikely. Croma’s Black Friday deal is their deepest discount of the year. After November 30, prices will likely return to Rs 65,000–68,000. The iPhone 17 will likely get its first discount around February 2026. This is your only window for a sub-Rs 40,000 iPhone 16.
What happens if I trade in a damaged phone?
Croma’s exchange calculator reduces value based on screen cracks, battery health, and missing accessories. A phone with a cracked back or poor battery life might only get Rs 5,000–8,000 instead of Rs 16,000. Always check the online estimator before visiting a store — and consider repairing minor damage first if you can.