Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models are anticipated to experience substantial price hikes, potentially up to $200 more than their predecessors. This projection comes from analytics firm IDC, which had initially estimated a $100 increase for these models. However, following recent price adjustments in Apple’s Mac and iPad lines, IDC now suggests that the iPhone 18 Pro series could see even steeper increases.
The primary driver behind these anticipated price hikes is the escalating cost of memory components. A global shortage of DRAM and NAND flash storage has led to increased expenses for manufacturers, including Apple. The iPhone 18 Pro models are expected to feature 12GB of RAM, aligning them with the M4 iPad Air and lower-tier M5 iPad Pro, both of which have seen price increases of $150 and $200, respectively. This trend suggests that the iPhone 18 Pro could start between $1,249 and $1,299, while the Pro Max might range from $1,349 to $1,399.
Despite these potential price increases, IDC believes that consumer demand will remain robust. Many users with iPhone 15 models or older are expected to upgrade to access new features, such as enhanced Siri AI capabilities. Additionally, customers opting for the Pro Max are typically less price-sensitive and often utilize monthly payment plans, making the incremental cost more manageable.
In addition to the iPhone 18 Pro series, Apple is also planning to release its first foldable iPhone. IDC estimates that this premium device could have an average selling price of $2,500, with higher storage configurations reaching up to $3,000. The introduction of this high-end model may help offset some of the increased memory costs and potentially mitigate larger price hikes across other models.
Apple’s decision to raise prices reflects broader industry challenges, particularly the rising costs of essential components like memory and storage. As the company continues to innovate and introduce advanced features, consumers should be prepared for corresponding adjustments in pricing. However, the enduring demand for Apple’s products suggests that these increases may have a limited impact on overall sales.
