If you’ve been searching for an iPhone lately, you’ve probably noticed something interesting. It’s not the latest iPhone 17 that’s getting all the attention in Pakistan’s mobile market. Surprisingly, it’s the iPhone 15.
Over the past few weeks, demand for the iPhone 15 series has picked up significantly, with both PTA-approved and non-PTA models selling well. Whether it’s the standard iPhone 15, the Plus, the Pro or the Pro Max, more people are choosing these models instead of the newer and much more expensive alternatives.
The reason is quite simple. People feel they’re getting the best value for their money.
With Apple just days away from launching the iPhone 18 series, many buyers have started looking at older iPhones instead. This happens almost every year. As soon as a new iPhone is around the corner, attention shifts to previous models because their prices become more reasonable, while the latest devices remain out of reach for many people.
This year, that trend seems even stronger.
The upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to carry a massive price tag in Pakistan, with some estimates suggesting it could approach Rs1 million after taxes and duties. For most buyers, that’s simply too much to spend on a smartphone.
That’s exactly why the iPhone 15 has become such an attractive option.
Is the iPhone 15 still worth buying in 2026?
For most people, the answer is yes.
The iPhone 15 still feels like a modern flagship. It has a beautiful OLED display, USB Type-C charging, excellent cameras and Apple’s Dynamic Island, which looks almost identical to what you’ll find on the newer iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 models.
If you’re considering the Pro models, you also get the titanium design that Apple introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro lineup. Even today, the phone feels premium in the hand and delivers the kind of performance most users will be happy with for years.
Of course, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 series do offer improvements. The Pro Max models have slightly larger displays, faster processors and some camera upgrades. However, for everyday use, whether it’s scrolling through social media, taking photos, watching videos or playing games, the difference isn’t as dramatic as many people expect.
Unless you place the phones side by side, most users probably won’t notice a huge gap.
What does the iPhone 15 cost in Pakistan?
Prices have also made the iPhone 15 much more appealing.
Non-PTA units are now available from around Rs170,000, while PTA-approved iPhone 15 Pro Max models can be found from roughly Rs275,000, depending on storage, condition and the seller.
Compare that with an iPhone 16 Pro Max, which can cost around Rs400,000, or an iPhone 17 Pro Max, which is priced above Rs500,000. It’s easy to see why so many buyers are choosing the older model instead.
Not everyone needs the newest iPhone.
If your goal is to get a premium Apple experience without spending half a million rupees, or close to a million on the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max, the iPhone 15 remains one of the smartest buys in Pakistan right now.
It’s modern, powerful, still looks like Apple’s latest phones and costs considerably less than the newer models. For many buyers in 2026, that’s exactly the combination they’re looking for.
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