Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
You are now subscribed
Your newsletter sign-up was successful
If you're looking to buy a phone around this time of year, you may well try to wait for a good Black Friday deal or some Christmas bargains. Often, even the best phones get some kind of discount or deal that makes them even more attractive.
But those looking to purchase a device from the iPhone 14 range – including the iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max – may be better off buying now, or risking not getting their hands on one at all.
After massive popularity caused issues with availability for the Pro and Pro Max variants, Apple has been dealt another blow. The companies' manufacturing partner, Foxconn, faces strict lockdown measures after an outbreak of Covid-19 at their main Zhengzhou plant caused a city-wide lockdown.
Article continues belowBBC Journalist, Stephen McDonell, shared videos which he claimed shows a swathe of workers breaking out of the factory to escape the measures, though these claims are not verified. Foxconn have reportedly offered a 20% bonus for any staff who stay to complete all shifts until mid-November, amidst concerns over production capacity.
It looks set to put another spanner in the works for the iPhone 14 range. In their latest earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook admitted that the company was unable to produce enough models of the iPhone 14 Pro to keep up with the demand. At the time of writing, Apple's UK webstore lists a three week wait time for the Pro, compared to a few days for the vanilla iPhone 14.
Will I be able to buy an iPhone 14?
There are already a host of great iPhone 14 deals available – great news for anyone looking to bite the bullet early. But will there be even better offers come Black Friday?
It's not likely. Apple itself doesn't take part in Black Friday like other retailers do. And, while you can get discounts and deals from third party sellers, I don't see them being substantial in such close proximity to the iPhone 14's release date.
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Sam Cross is an award-winning journalist, with nine years of experience in the media industry. His work can be found in publications as diverse as Oracle Time, Metro and Last Word on Sports.
Here at T3, Sam is best known as the brand’s go-to guy for all things luxurious – from exquisite watches to fine fragrances; the latest performance vehicles to intricate audio equipment, and more.
He’s often found travelling around the world to test new launches, complete with high-end backpacks and suitcases in tow. And when he’s not adding to his air miles, Sam can be found in front of a video camera, bringing his distinctive brand of storytelling to T3’s social media channels.
Sam also loves all things analogue including listening to music on vinyl or cassette, and photography on vintage film cameras.