The US and South Korea may receive the phone 16 at the same time.

Apple Hongdae opening day queues.
South Korea could get the iPhone 16 at the same time the US in September for the first time since the iPhone 3GS. Apple’s smartphones are usually released in a few key markets on the first day, and then in other territories in the following weeks. South Korea releases its products a few weeks or even months after other major markets. This could change in 2024. Apple, according to sources at The Korea Times is pushing the release date in South Korea. It could be one of the first countries to launch the new iPhone models. An industry official stated that preparations were underway for the iPhone’s release. Apple’s culture is one of secrecy, and it has minimal communication with telecom partners. Therefore, carriers are unable to confirm release dates until Apple makes its official announcement. According to current speculation, the iPhone 16 launch could take place on September 10. The report spoke to another person who said that an early launch is “still at the stage of likely rumor” and that it’s “hard to predict”. Apple’s strict confidentiality policies have been cited as a factor in the delay of Apple’s launch in South Korea. Apple must also contend with Korea’s certification process. The National Radio Research Agency releases information about new devices on its website. If the iPhone is submitted to NRRA testing, it could lead to specifications being leaked ahead of launch. Apple may choose to launch in South Korea despite the regulatory risk, as it is seeing positive progress in that region. Apple’s operating profit increased by 550% in the fiscal year that ended September 2023. South Korean users under 30 are also more likely to purchase an Android device and then switch to the iPhone. Apple opened a store at Hongdae and Gangnam in January 2024. This will give users more opportunities to interact with Apple. Apple’s presence in South Korea has not been without its problems. Due to local laws, Find My doesn’t function in the country. Samsung, the local tech giant, is also a major player in the country.