Every September, Apple brings the world together in front of its screens. The iPhone launch is no longer just a product reveal — it’s a cultural event.
In 2025, the company introduced the iPhone 17 Pro Max — thinner, more powerful, with a new chip, better camera, and a price tag of about $1,300. Thousands are already lining up to buy it on day one.
But let’s look at this from a different angle.
What will be more valuable in two years — a new iPhone or Apple stock?
Option 1. Buy the iPhone 17 Pro Max
- Purchase price: ~$1,300.
- After two years, the phone will lose 50–60% of its value, just like previous models.
- Today, a 15 Pro Max resells for about $550–600, even though it cost $1,200+ two years ago.
- So in two years, your 17 Pro Max will likely be worth around $500–600.
Bottom line: you enjoy the device here and now, but lose about $700–800 in value.
Option 2. Buy Apple stock (AAPL)
- With the same $1,300, you could buy Apple shares.
- Over the past decade, Apple stock has grown on average 20–25% annually (including dividends).
- Even in a more modest scenario — 12% a year — after two years:
$1,300 → $1,630–1,640.
- Plus dividends. Apple pays about 0.5% annually, adding another ~$15–20 over two years.
Bottom line: not only do you preserve your money, you also grow it by $300+, while becoming a co-owner of the company behind the world’s most desired gadgets.
The takeaway
Buying a new iPhone is about emotions and comfort. You pay for style, convenience, and the joy of owning a flagship device.
Investing is about the future. You trade instant gratification for money that works for you.
Ideally, you can find a balance: buy a slightly cheaper model (or last year’s version at a discount) and invest the difference in Apple stock. That way, you’ll have both the phone and a growing portfolio.
PS
Investing isn’t about giving up pleasures — it’s about setting priorities. At PredictStock, we analyze thousands of stocks daily and highlight which companies could deliver growth in the future. Sometimes, all it takes is looking at a purchase from a different perspective to make a choice that pays off today and tomorrow.