Apple Plans iPhone 18 Pro Launch in Early September with Price Hikes and Camera Upgrades

Apple is preparing to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro at its annual launch event likely scheduled for early September, with industry insiders expecting price increases across iPhones and Apple Watches. Following recent price hikes on Macs, iPads, Apple TV, HomePod, and Vision Pro, the iPhone and other key products remained unchanged but are now anticipated to become more expensive. The iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to start between $1,299 and $1,399, up from last year’s $1,099, though currency fluctuations may moderate price changes in Israel. Older iPhone models may hold steady or see slight increases rather than the usual price drops. Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 could also face price rises due to a memory chip shortage linked to AI demand, while AirPods price hikes are less certain.

The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to feature three major upgrades: a variable aperture camera lens allowing better light control, a smaller Dynamic Island notch reduced by about 35%, and a new Apple-designed C2 modem replacing Qualcomm chips, promising faster speeds, improved efficiency, and enhanced privacy. These enhancements have been anticipated for years, with analyst Ming-Chi Kuo confirming the variable aperture will debut on this model.

Regarding the launch event, Bloomberg reports Apple has begun selecting U.S. retail employees to assist with the event in California, scheduled for the first half of September. Invitations for staff participation close on August 8, with selections announced by August 17. The event is likely on Wednesday, September 9, shortly after Labor Day, allowing convenient travel for attendees. Pre-orders would start on September 11, with in-store availability about a week later. New iPhones typically reach Israel by the end of September.