Do Shopping Apps Charge iPhone Users More? Viral Post Sparks Heated Discussion on Price Discrepancies

Social media has been abuzz after a post by Saurabh Sharma revealed differing prices for a product on Flipkart depending on whether it was viewed on an Android or iPhone device, raising concerns over potential bias in app pricing.

A post on X (formerly Twitter) by user Saurabh Sharma has gone viral, stirring debate over possible pricing discrepancies between Android and iOS users on e-commerce apps. Sharma posted screenshots showing a significant price difference for a Mokobara cabin suitcase on Flipkart: it was priced at ₹4,119 with a 65% discount on Android, while iPhone users saw it listed at ₹4,799 with only a 60% discount. Additionally, the no-cost EMI options varied between devices, with Android users offered a ₹1,373 monthly rate compared to ₹1,600 for iOS users.

With over 125,000 views and a slew of responses, the post ignited discussions about potential price differences across other platforms as well. 

Many users weighed in with similar experiences, with one person commenting, “This is common across multiple apps,” and another mentioning pricing differences seen in cab fares between Android and iOS.

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Some users criticized Flipkart’s platform, labeling it as “risky” and “shady,” while others suggested the discrepancy might result from different commission rates or seller errors. Sharma questioned the practice, pointing out that while Apple does charge a 30% commission on subscriptions, the same logic should not apply to e-commerce items. Flipkart’s customer support responded to Sharma, explaining that “Prices may vary since they are determined by the seller based on various factors” and encouraged users to continue enjoying “great deals and discounts” on the platform.

The controversy highlights an ongoing conversation about transparency and fairness in digital pricing practices, with consumers calling for clearer policies regarding app-based price differences.

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