Apple Announcement Sparks Price Drops in Second-Hand iPhone Market

TOKYO, Sep 11 (News On Japan) - The announcement of the iPhone 16 has sent sellers flocking to the second-hand iPhone market in Japan, with iPhones 12 and 13 going for less than half the price of a new model.

Masatoshi Ono, from the second-hand retailer Nikosuma, explained that many customers are now considering buying older models like the iPhone 12 and 13, which are available for less than half the price of a new one. Prices for older models, such as the iPhone 14 and 15, are expected to drop in line with Apple's price reductions for these models.

Apple unveiled its latest smartphone, the iPhone 16, on September 10, introducing several new features, including a dedicated camera button for quick photo and zoom adjustments. The device also incorporates Apple's new generative AI, "Apple Intelligence," which enables advanced functions like removing objects from images, summarizing long emails, and creating custom emojis. Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted how the powerful AI would make the iPhone more convenient and enjoyable for users.

IT journalist Yoh Mikami noted further improvements, such as a smarter Siri, enhanced by generative AI, which can now provide detailed responses and act as a personal assistant by referencing users' schedules and past emails. Public reactions were generally positive, with some expressing excitement about the iPhone 16's new features, particularly its improved camera and AI capabilities. However, some users mentioned concerns over the high cost, suggesting they may consider purchasing older models at a discount.

Pre-orders for the iPhone 16 will begin on September 13, with the official release on September 20.

Source: FNN

Japan's Land Prices Surge for 4th Straight Year

Land prices across Japan have been rising for four consecutive years, with North Kanto emerging as a key area of interest due to its favorable living conditions.

Sharp Unveils First EV With Extended Living Room

Sharp, a major home appliance manufacturer, has unveiled its first electric vehicle (EV) as part of its move into the electric vehicle market, with a five-seater 'extended livingroom' EV Sharp van.

Yamaha President Injured, Daughter Arrested for Attempted Murder

Yoshihiro Hidaka, president of Yamaha Motor, sustained minor injuries on Monday after being slashed in the arm at his home in Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture. Police have arrested his daughter, Hana Hidaka, who lives with him and is currently unemployed, on suspicion of attempted murder.

School Staff Embezzles 8 Million Yen by Switching Chicken Thighs for Breasts

A school nutritionist in Fukushima embezzled Y7.98 million by using cheaper ingredients, such as replacing chicken thighs with breasts, to cut costs.

'Shogun' Wins Record 18 Emmy Awards

The Japan-set historical series "Shogun" has won a record number of prizes at the 76th Emmy Awards in the US, including best drama and best actor. (NHK)

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Business NEWS

Why Onna Village Leads Japan's Growth in Land Prices

The village of Onna in Okinawa has recorded the highest land price increase in Japan, with prices for some areas rising by 29%. The average nationwide land price has increased by 1.4% for the third consecutive year, but the sharpest growth is seen in residential areas like Onna Village.

What’s the Price of Golden Black Jack?

Gold is gaining increasing attention as a stable asset. Among the most eye-catching items at a gold exhibition held in a Sapporo department store are statues of the genius surgeon Black Jack and his assistant Pinoko, both made of gold.

Honda’s First Startup Launches Navigation Device for the Visually Impaired

There are approximately 2 million visually impaired individuals in Japan and 300 million worldwide. Due to their impaired vision, going out often comes with the risk of accidents. In response to this issue, Honda's first startup Asirase, led by CEO Chino, developed a navigation device called 'Ashirase' to assist visually impaired individuals in walking safely.

Japan's Restaurant Chains Seize Opportunities in China's Budget-Conscious Market

Japanese food businesses are intensifying their expansion efforts in China, where consumption has stagnated due to rising food prices. We investigate the factors driving these Japanese companies to accelerate their operations in the Chinese market.

Don Quijote Enters Low-Cost SIM Market

Pan Pacific International Holdings, the operator of Don Quijote, has announced its entry into the low-cost SIM card market. The company will offer plans starting at 770 yen per month for 3GB, using NTT Docomo’s network.

Ricoh Cuts 2,000 Jobs Due to Declining Office Equipment Market

Ricoh announced on September 12th that it will reduce its workforce by approximately 2,000 employees globally by March 2025. With the market for office equipment shrinking due to the advancement of digitalization, the company plans to restructure its overseas sales and service operations while focusing its management resources on supporting digital transformation (DX).

BOJ policymaker signals rate hikes needed to stabilize prices

A Bank of Japan policy board member has signaled that the central bank should raise its short-term interest rate to at least around one percent in stages for price stability. (NHK)

Japan's Salons Shave Costs with 'Haircut Monster'

Hair salon bankruptcies in Japan are on the rise, with 139 cases recorded between January and August 2024, a significant increase from previous years. Factors such as rising competition, material costs, and labor expenses are contributing to this surge. Despite these challenges, some salons are finding ways to thrive by adopting cost-effective strategies.

< 2 3 4 5 >