Key Facts
• September 12: Pre-orders for Apple’s iPhone 17 began; sales start September 19.
• KDDI offers the 256GB model for $345 (tax included) with trade-in after 2 years.
• NTT Docomo’s switcher price is $319.66, prioritizing users transitioning from 3G services.
• Rakuten Mobile provides up to $210 in points, reducing the effective price to $523.92.
• SoftBank’s online switcher price is $220.24 with trade-in after 2 years.
• SoftBank’s device upgrade price is $752.80, higher than competitors.
• All carriers offer the lowest prices for customers switching from other providers.
Summary
Major Japanese carriers-KDDI, NTT Docomo, Rakuten Mobile, and SoftBank-have started pre-orders for Apple’s iPhone 17, with sales commencing on September 19. Each carrier offers the most competitive prices for customers switching from other providers. KDDI’s 256GB model is priced at $345 with a trade-in after two years, while NTT Docomo offers a $319.66 deal, focusing on users transitioning from 3G services. Rakuten Mobile leverages its point system, offering up to $210 in rewards, reducing the effective price to $523.92. SoftBank provides the lowest switcher price at $220.24 with a trade-in but has the highest device upgrade cost at $752.80. These offers highlight the carriers’ strategies to attract new customers and retain existing ones.
