Flipkart Offers Lesser Price On Android Than iOS For Products? Here's The E-Commerce Giant's Nonchalant Response

Other users shared similar experiences with varying prices across different apps, with one user remarking, "This is common across multiple apps, mad annoying."

Flipkart’s customer service explained that prices are set by sellers and may vary due to multiple factors.

Source : Rubaitul Azad/Unsplash

A recent post on X (formerly Twitter) sparked debate after a user observed pricing discrepancies for the same product on Flipkart's iPhone and Android apps. Saurabh Sharma, the user who shared screenshots from Flipkart’s app, pointed out that a Mokobara cabin suitcase costs Rs 4,119 on Android with a 65 per cent discount, while the same product is priced at Rs 4,799 with a 60 per cent discount on iPhone.

In his post, Sharma wrote, “Android vs iOS – different prices on Flipkart app,” highlighting the surprising difference in price and EMI options. While Android users could choose a no-cost EMI starting at Rs 1,373 per month, iPhone users saw a minimum EMI of Rs 1,600.

The post quickly attracted attention, amassing over 137,000 views and sparking discussion about pricing practices. 

Android vs iOS - different prices on @Flipkart App??

same @my_mokobara cabin suitcase costs 4119₹ on FK Android App vs 4799₹ on iOS App.

Apple charges 30% commission on subscriptions etc, so different pricing for iOS makes sense there.

But for ecommerce? Very shady & unfair. pic.twitter.com/YmIq8nhuXO

— Saurabh Sharma (@randomusements) October 30, 2024

How Did Flipkart Respond?

Responding to Sharma’s query, Flipkart’s customer service explained that prices are set by sellers and may vary due to multiple factors, offering a notable auto-generated message with no major takeaways.

“Prices may vary since it is determined by the seller based on various factors. However, please don't worry, our sellers are always trying their best to bring you great deals and discounts. Happy shopping!,” Flipkart’s support team replied, urging users to continue shopping despite the apparent discrepancies.

How Did Netizens React?

Some users shared similar experiences with varying prices across different apps, with one user remarking, "This is common across multiple apps, mad annoying. I once had a 1 lakh Android device and an old iPhone 7 plus and everything was more expensive on the latter. If I recall correctly, even cab prices."

The reactions online were mixed. Some users expressed frustration over pricing inconsistencies, while others speculated on causes such as app-based commissions. One commenter noted, “Shady, yes! Check if Amazon or any other does the same, I don't think so. Flipkart has been shady for a while now. Unfair? well as long as they can get away with it. Closed Flipkart a/c long time ago. The platform accepts no responsibility for anything. Risky platform.”

While Flipkart's response has done little to quell the discussion, it has brought attention to how pricing can differ not only based on the platform but potentially on device type — a trend some users feel raises questions about fairness in e-commerce pricing practices.