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

Apple is preparing to launch the iPhone 18 Pro at its annual event likely scheduled for early September, with industry estimates pointing to price increases across iPhones and Apple Watches. Following recent price hikes on Mac computers, iPads, Apple TV, HomePod, and Vision Pro, the iPhone and Apple Watch lines are expected to see similar adjustments. 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 maintain or slightly increase their prices instead of the usual reductions.

The Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 are also anticipated to become more expensive due to a memory chip shortage driven by rising AI demand, a factor that might also affect AirPods but to a lesser extent. The September event is expected to confirm these pricing changes.

The iPhone 18 Pro will feature three major upgrades: a new camera with a variable aperture allowing better light control, a smaller Dynamic Island display cutout reduced by about 35%, and Apple's next-generation C2 modem chip replacing Qualcomm modems. The C2 chip promises faster speeds, improved efficiency, and enhanced privacy features.

Regarding the launch event, Bloomberg reports Apple has begun selecting U.S. retail employees to assist at the California event, which is likely to be held on Wednesday, September 9, shortly after Labor Day. Invitations for the event support program close on August 8, with selections announced by August 17. Pre-orders for the new iPhones are expected to open on September 11, with in-store availability about a week later. New devices typically reach Israel by the end of September.