Apple Plans Significant Price Hike for iPhone 18 Pro Models Amid Rising Component Costs

Apple is expected to significantly increase prices for its upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models, according to reports from analysts and industry insiders. The price hike is anticipated to range between 10% and 20%, driven primarily by sharp increases in the costs of DRAM and NAND memory chips. These components have become more expensive due to growing demand from the artificial intelligence sector and large data centers.

In China, the starting price for the iPhone 18 Pro could rise from 8,999 yuan to 9,999 yuan. If similar pricing adjustments occur in the United States, the base price may reach approximately $1,220, up from the current $1,099. Research firm TechInsights estimates that the cost of 12GB memory in the Pro models could jump from about $39 in the previous generation to around $145, significantly raising production expenses before factoring in other upgrades such as a new camera system.

Market research company IDC has also revised its forecasts, now predicting a price increase of up to $200 for the Pro models, doubling earlier estimates of $100. Despite the higher prices, IDC believes demand impact will be limited because Pro model buyers tend to be less price-sensitive and often purchase through installment plans.

Attention is also focused on Apple's first foldable iPhone, reportedly named iPhone Ultra, which is expected to exceed $2,000 in price, with higher storage variants potentially approaching $3,000. Apple has not yet officially announced pricing for the iPhone 18 series, but following recent price increases for Macs, iPads, and other products, a similar trend for iPhones appears likely. If these projections hold, the September launch of the iPhone 18 could mark one of the most substantial price increases in iPhone history.