RIP iPhone 5C: Apple may discontinue the colorful phone in 2015

By Malarie Gokey Published November 26, 2014

Apple iPhone 5C — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Apple’s iPhone 5C was the company’s first foray into the world of colorful, plastic phones. Since its release, another iPhone launch has come and gone without mention of Apple’s little experiment. While many thought Apple might continue the 5C line, it seems that is unlikely. A new report from Taiwan’s Industrial and Commercial Times says the iPhone 5C will be discontinued in 2015.

It’s the second report that’s surfaced in the past week to mention the end of Apple’s iPhone 5C. Noted KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently stated that Apple will stop making the iPhone 5C in 2015 once promotions on the handset end. The iPhone 4S will also go to the chopping block around the same time. Once these two older handsets are retired, every iPhone sold will come equipped with a Touch ID sensor for security.

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Apple regularly streamlines its iPhone and iPad lineups by cutting out the weakest links shortly after new versions of each device are launched. Ending production of the iPhone 4S and 5C will also free up Apple’s production lines for manufacturing the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, as well as other new products.

Currently, you can only buy an 8GB version of the iPhone 5C from Apple’s website for $450 unlocked or $0 on a two-year contract. Those who want more storage have to look to eBay and other sites. Based on the report, it sounds as though Apple may offer even better deals on the 5C in the future to clear out stock, so keep an eye out.

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Former Digital Trends Contributor

As DT's Mobile Editor, Malarie runs the Mobile and Wearables sections, which cover smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and…

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