Shoppers just don't buy Apple (AAPL -0.57%) as a budget brand, Fool contributor Tim Beyers says in the following video.

Look at the iPhone 5c. Not only has the 5c suffered price cuts at major retailers, but a recent report in The Wall Street Journal stated that Apple plans to cut orders from suppliers of its budget phone this quarter, presumably due to weaker than expected sales.

If there's a clear message here, Tim says, it's that the market doesn't want to see Apple selling cut-rate gear. Shoppers expect a higher quality product and a better experience -- a premium feel consistent with the brand that the late Steve Jobs spent decades building.

Do you agree? Do you believe Apple's budget iPhone delivers on its brand promise? Please watch the video to get Tim's full take and then leave a comment to let us know where you stand.