The global memory shortage and rising component prices may finally overcome Apple’s resistance. According to several analytical and industrial sources, the iPhone 18, expected this fall, could be launched at a higher price than its predecessor, especially for versions offering larger storage capacities.
Until now, Apple had seemed relatively shielded from market turbulence thanks to its exclusive supply contracts and vertically integrated supply chain. But the scale of the crisis, which has already pushed Android manufacturers like Samsung to consider price hikes, could end up forcing even the Cupertino giant to adjust.
A Price Increase Focused on High-End Models
The increase would not be uniform. According to analyses cited by Korean leaker yeux1122, the base iPhone 18 could remain at the same price as the iPhone 17. By contrast, the Pro models and high-storage versions would see a significant rise.
This gradual approach would allow Apple to keep an attractive entry price while passing on part of the cost inflation, particularly acute for flash memory and RAM modules. “The more storage you want, the more you’ll have to open your wallet,” the source sums up.
A Strained Industrial Context That Spares No One
The surge in semiconductor prices is a structural phenomenon driven by explosive demand, especially for AI, and by still-insufficient production capacity. Analyses from Citigroup, Bank of America and J.P. Morgan Research all point to a lasting impact on production costs for high-end smartphones.
If this trend is confirmed, it would mark a turning point. In recent years, Apple has managed to maintain remarkable price stability despite inflation. Even a targeted increase would signal that supply-chain tensions have reached an unprecedented level.
That said, the launch of the iPhone 18 is still some way off. Apple’s marketing and pricing plans may evolve before the official announcement, traditionally scheduled for September. The coming months and developments in the components market will be decisive for future buyers’ wallets.
