Overview
- Major outlets reported on Monday that Apple is preparing to raise iPhone 18 launch prices by about $100 or more per model, with the iPhone 18 Pro likely to start near $1,199.
- Reporters and analysts say the move is being driven by steep increases in memory prices, specifically DRAM and NAND flash, which have become more costly because AI and data‑center customers are buying much of the available supply.
- Supply and packaging bottlenecks tied to the new A20 chips and memory availability could cut early inventory and lead Apple to stage a Pro‑first or split rollout that limits store stock at launch.
- Apple can soften the sticker shock through its Upgrade leasing program, trade‑in offers and other financing, and the company has already been raising prices on Macs and iPads this year.
- A roughly $100 increase would align Apple with recent flagship price moves from Samsung and Google, but analysts warn higher prices could lengthen upgrade cycles and reduce near‑term demand.