As the release date for the iPhone 18 Pro approaches, concerns regarding potential price increases loom over consumers. However, recent reports from leading analysts suggest that Apple is likely to keep the pricing structure for its new models steady, offering reassurance to potential buyers.
Stable Prices Expected for iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max
According to Jeff Pu, a prominent equity analyst at GF Securities, Apple will maintain the starting prices for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max at $1,099 and $1,199, respectively, for the base 256GB versions. This pricing strategy mirrors that of the iPhone 17 series, signaling Apple's commitment to cost management amidst rising component prices.
Notably, the iPhone 18 series, alongside the anticipated iPhone Fold, is set to debut in early 2027, further highlighting Apple's innovative approach to the marketplace.
Pu also revealed that Apple has successfully negotiated favorable pricing with major memory chip suppliers, including Samsung and SK Hynix, which is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that prices remain competitive for the new iPhone models.
Positive Insights from Another Analyst
Ming-Chi Kuo, another well-respected analyst in the industry, supports Pu's outlook, stating that Apple’s strategic memory pricing negotiations should buffer against anticipated increases caused by the heightened demand for memory chips in AI data centers. Kuo emphasizes that Apple's quarterly renegotiation of memory contracts allows them to maintain flexibility in adjusting to market conditions.
Moreover, Kuo notes that despite certain components becoming more expensive, Apple has a plan in place to absorb these costs without passing them onto consumers. This strategy aims to maintain market share and bolster services revenue, which continues to grow steadily.
Apple's Strategy in a Competitive Market
As industry analysts predict an overall increase in smartphone prices due to rising component costs—projected by firms like IDC to climb as much as 6% to 8%—Apple's decision to keep prices flat could offer a significant competitive advantage. By not raising prices, Apple can attract more customers while simultaneously strengthening their burgeoning Services business.
With the highly anticipated launch of the iPhone 18 series on the horizon, Apple is setting the stage for a remarkable release, reinforcing its commitment to consumers despite external pressures from supply chain challenges and competition.
