In a move that is highly unusual for a company that has been notorious for charging steep prices for its products, not only for its main ones but for accessories too, Apple is cutting the prices for adapters. The move is mainly a response to the uproar that it received from customers.
The company has decided to reduce the prices for its USB-C adapters and cables. The decision is very crucial for owners of Apple devices that's because the latest MacBook Pro only has USB-C ports, which means that customers need to get adapters for them to use their MacBook Pro.
Apple didn't stop there because it has also discounted the prices of the third-party USB-C peripherals that it sells to customers. These include USB-C mobile hard drives from G-Technology, Belkin's USB-C dongles, and SanDisk USB-C memory card readers. The company is giving up to 40% discounts. The move would cut into the company's profit margins.
Apple representatives admitted that many users of their products, especially professionals, rely on legacy connectors. The move is supposed to help those users so they can move on towards newer technology being introduced by Apple.
Long Term Benefits
Aside from making it easier for customers to purchase adapters, the move can also promote the use of the USB-C, which would be beneficial to the company in the long run. So, the move is going to be good for Apple in the over time, though it may reduce the company's profits for now.
Still, the decision to cut prices is a good sign for Apple fans all over the world. It shows that Apple is paying attention to what its customers are saying. Now, the USB-C to USB adapter is selling for only $9, down from its original price of $19. The Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter which used to cost $49 is now being sold for only $29.
It's a different matter though in regards with the charging peripherals of MacBook Pros. Those still cost $49 right now. Still, many customers are happy with the price cut. The only thing that most observers do not like about it is the fact that it isn't permanent. The price reduction would only last until the end of the current year. After that, customers can expect the prices to go back up again.
Hopefully, Apple will listen to what its customers are saying if there is call to permanently reduce the prices of the adapters.
