On April 8, Apple unveiled a new variant of its popular iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus smartphones. As reported by TechCrunch, the new model is characterized by a red color.
Apple has been rumored to be working on a red iPhone 8, with Virgin Mobile leaking the details last weekend. This is the first time, however, that Apple has officially confirmed the product.
So, what prompted Apple to release a red iPhone 8 variant? This move is intended to support the AIDS foundation RED. When a consumer buyers a red iPhone 8 or iPhone Plus, Apple will donate a portion of the proceeds to RED. According to RED’s website, the foundation partners with some of the world’s biggest brands, many of which contribute up to 50 percent of their profits from the sale of various goods and services. Using these contributions, RED provides AIDS/HIV grants to local communities in Africa.
This isn’t the first time that Apple has released a red iPhone. Last year, the Cupertino-based company released a red variant of its iPhone 7. Apple has contributed more than $160 million to the RED foundation by selling limited-edition products like red iPhones and iPads.
While the new red iPhone 8’s key selling point is the positive impact it has on global health, it’s also a popular color among consumers. Red smartphones consistently outsell other colors except for black. Furthermore, its bright color means consumers have a lower risk of losing their handset.
Originally launched September 22, 2017 in the United State, the iPhone 8 is the latest generation of Apple’s flagship smartphone. It includes many of the same hardware components and features as its predecessor but with a few upgrades. The iPhone 8, for instance, features a glass back instead of a plastic back for a smoother and more stylish appearance. Other notable upgrades include wireless charging, improved touchscreen display, higher-megapixel camera and a faster processor chip.
Apple says consumers can pre-order the red iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus beginning April 10. They won’t go on sale, however, until April 13. Apple has yet to disclose full pricing details, but it says the new red variants will have a starting price of $699.
Dil Bole Oberoi
