iPhone 18 expected prices revealed as Apple prepares major launch
A new report has revealed the expected prices and launch plans for Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 series. The latest estimates suggest the price increase may be much smaller than many users had feared.
Earlier this month, Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook hinted that iPhone prices could rise because the cost of making smartphones has increased. He explained that the global shortage of memory and storage chips has pushed production costs higher, but he did not announce the new prices at that time.
Now, a report by investment firm JP Morgan claims Apple may increase the price of each new iPhone model by only $50 compared with the previous generation. The report says Apple plans to reduce extra costs by using more of its own in-house technologies, including its C-series modem.
According to the expected pricing, the iPhone 18 Pro could start at $1,149. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to be priced from $1,249.
Earlier reports had suggested that prices could increase by as much as $200. However, the latest forecast is likely to bring some relief to customers waiting for the new devices.
The report also said the rapid growth of artificial intelligence has increased the construction of data centres around the world. As a result, demand for memory and storage chips has reached record levels, forcing chip manufacturers to raise prices and affecting the smartphone industry.
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According to The Wall Street Journal, the memory and storage components used in the iPhone 18 Pro could cost around $150 more than those used in the iPhone 17. This increase is one of the main reasons behind the expected price adjustment.
Apple is expected to introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and its first foldable iPhone in September 2026. The standard iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 are likely to be launched in early 2027.
If the latest report proves correct, Apple may avoid a major price jump despite rising production costs. This could help the company keep the new iPhone series attractive for buyers while managing higher manufacturing expenses.
