iPhone 9 – A Hypothetical Budget iPhone
The iPhone 9 was widely anticipated as a budget-friendly iPhone that would bridge the gap between the premium iPhone models and Apple’s lower-cost offerings. Although Apple never released this specific model, it’s fun to imagine what the iPhone 9 could have been. Based on the iPhone 8’s design and hardware, the iPhone 9 would have brought upgraded internals, including a newer chip and improved camera technology, all at a more affordable price compared to the iPhone X and beyond.
The iPhone 9 would have likely been powered by the A13 Bionic chip, giving it a solid performance boost compared to its predecessors while maintaining the classic iPhone design. Featuring Touch ID, a 4.7-inch Retina display, and fast charging, the iPhone 9 would have been a perfect option for those who wanted an Apple experience without splurging on the higher-end models.
If it had been released, the iPhone 9 would have had all the essential iPhone features at a reasonable price point, making it an attractive choice for anyone looking to step into the Apple ecosystem.
iPhone 9 Specifications (Hypothetical)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 4.7″ Retina HD display, 1334 x 750 resolution, True Tone |
| Processor | A13 Bionic chip with 64-bit architecture |
| RAM | 3GB |
| Storage Options | 64GB / 128GB (non-expandable) |
| Rear Camera | 12MP (f/1.8) wide camera with Portrait Mode and Smart HDR |
| Front Camera | 7MP (f/2.2) with Portrait Mode |
| Battery | 1821mAh with 18W fast charging, Qi wireless charging support |
| Operating System | iOS 14 (upgradable to newer versions) |
| Build | Aluminum body with glass front and back, IP67 water-resistant |
| Security | Touch ID, FaceTime HD camera |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Lightning connector |
| Audio Jack | No 3.5mm headphone jack, Lightning port |
| Colors | Space Gray, Silver, Red |
| Price (2025, Approx.) | ₹39,999–₹42,999 INR / $399–$429 USD (varies by region and storage) |
Final Thoughts
Though Apple never released the iPhone 9, its hypothetical presence in the market could have been a game-changer for budget-conscious users seeking the Apple ecosystem without paying a premium price. With solid performance, a decent camera system, and access to Apple services, it would have been a great entry-level iPhone.
The iPhone 9 would have been perfect for those who wanted the classic iPhone design, with Touch ID, and a compact form factor that was becoming rarer in later iPhone models. While the iPhone SE eventually filled this gap, the iPhone 9 would have provided an affordable yet powerful option for users in the budget category.
