Apple launched the iPhone 13 in India in September 2021 at Rs 79,900 for 128 GB, doubling the base storage of the iPhone 12. It kept the flat-edged aluminium design but trimmed the notch by about 20 percent and moved the cameras into a diagonal layout. Over the following years, price cuts and festive sales made it one of the best-selling iPhones in India.
The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED is bright and colour accurate, though it is limited to 60Hz while Android rivals at this price had 120Hz. The A15 Bionic chip was the fastest phone chip of its time and kept the phone feeling quick long after launch. At 173 g it is comfortable, and IP68 water resistance plus Ceramic Shield glass make it durable.
Both 12 MP cameras improved, with the wide camera gaining sensor-shift stabilisation and Cinematic mode adding rack-focus video. Battery life was a big step over the iPhone 12, comfortably lasting a day. Charging is slow at around 20W with an adapter bought separately. Against the Galaxy S21 FE and OnePlus 9, it won on video, longevity and resale value.
Key specifications
| Launch price (India) | Rs 79,900 (base variant) |
|---|---|
| India launch | September 2021 |
| Segment | Flagship |
| Display | 6.1-inch, Super Retina XDR OLED, 60Hz, 1170 x 2532 |
| Processor | Apple A15 Bionic |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB |
| Expandable storage | No |
| Rear cameras | 12 MP wide + 12 MP ultrawide |
| Front camera | 12 MP |
| Battery | 3227 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired, wireless |
| Software at launch | iOS 15 |
| 5G | Yes |
| Water/dust rating | IP68 |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Weight | 173 g |
| Colours | Pink, Blue, Midnight, Starlight, (PRODUCT)RED |
What we like
- A15 Bionic remains fast for years
- Excellent video recording
- Much improved battery life
- Long iOS support and resale value
What could be better
- 60Hz display
- Slow charging, no charger in box
- No telephoto
Who should buy it
Buyers who want a dependable, long-supported iPhone, especially at discounted prices.
Specifications and price are as at the India launch (September 2021). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.