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Apple readies iPhone SE Brazil launch

But the smartphone is still way pricier than comparable options from other manufacturers
Written by Angelica Mari, Contributing Writer

Apple is getting ready to launch the iPhone SE in Brazil, however the new smartphone is still way pricier than similar options available locally.

The 4-inch phone, Apple's cheapest device to date, should be available in Brazil as of this month at R$2,700 ($766) for the entry model with 16GB and R$3,000 ($852) for the 64GB option. This compares with the US prices of $399 and $499 for both models respectively.

Despite being marketed as an option for those wanting an iPhone upgrade without spending so much, the SE will compete locally with other devices with comparable specifications and lower pricing.

Examples include the Galaxy S6 Edge and Galaxy Note 5, priced at R$2,300 ($653) and R$ 2,600 ($738) respectively and even cheaper options such as Motorola's Moto X Force at R$ 2,520 ($715) and LG's G4, priced at R$1,600 ($454).

And if the SE adoption in the US is anything to go by, Brazilians will also be unlikely to rush out to buy it - not only because users are taking longer to upgrade but local consumers are more cautious due to the country's current recession.

The iPhone has also been losing space in the Brazilian smartphone market over the last few years.

According to Gartner data, its market share in the country has gone from 6,2 percent in 2013 to 4,5 percent in 2015. Samsung leads the Brazilian smartphone market with 38,2 percent of sales, followed by Lenovo with 19 percent and LG with 13,6 percent.

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