Reports suggest that Apple may be preparing to raise prices across its product lineup, citing rising costs for memory and storage chips. According to the report, Apple CEO Tim Cook has publicly indicated that surging component prices—particularly for RAM and storage—have intensified cost pressure and that further price adjustments may be difficult to avoid as inventories of lower-cost stock run down.
While Apple has not announced a timeline, scale, or which models would be affected, the report suggests that any pricing changes could be formalized around Apple’s usual September product launch, when the iPhone 18 lineup is expected to debut.
Why prices may rise？
The report attributes the pressure largely to a tight supply of high-end storage chips. With AI-related demand driving server and data-center procurement, some premium memory capacity has reportedly been prioritized for server equipment, pushing up prices and squeezing smartphone supply.
Should you buy the iPhone 17 now or wait for the iPhone 18?
The analysis argues that two product tracks are most likely to face higher prices: the new iPhone 18 series and Apple’s first foldable iPhone, which is expected to command a much higher starting price. For buyers who want to avoid paying more, the report suggests that purchasing the current-generation iPhone 17 while pricing remains relatively stable could be a safer option—though it also notes that older models often drop in price after new launches, and this year could see more volatility.
Based on the specifications summarized in the article, the iPhone 18 family is said to include four models: a standard version, Pro, Pro Max, and a new foldable model.
Key rumored upgrades include:
- A new A20 chip platform, with the standard model using a 2nm A20 variant and higher-end models featuring A20 Pro for improved power efficiency and lower heat.
- A RAM increase, with 12GB as the new baseline and up to 16GB on premium variants, replacing the previous 8GB baseline cited in the report.
- Apple’s self-developed C2 modem, which the report says could improve signal performance and power consumption.
- A design change that removes the Dynamic Island cutout and shifts to under-display Face ID for a more uninterrupted screen.
- Slightly improved charging speeds.
- Camera upgrades, including wider adoption of telephoto and a mechanical variable aperture on Pro models, with an aperture range reportedly from f/1.4 to f/4.0.
The report concludes that many of these changes amount to “routine upgrades,” meaning the overall day-to-day experience may not differ dramatically from the previous generation for average users.
Foldable iPhone: big screen, bigger cost
The foldable iPhone is described as the year’s most high-profile new product, with a dual-screen setup aimed at productivity use cases. However, the report also flags clear trade-offs: a very high entry price (estimated at RMB 15,600), potentially higher repair costs, and battery life that may not match traditional slab phones—making it more suitable for business users and early adopters than for mainstream buyers.
Suggested buying approach (per the report)
- If you plan to switch phones again within 1–2 years, the report recommends prioritizing value—potentially opting for a discounted iPhone 17.
- If you intend to keep a phone for three years or more, it suggests waiting for a higher-end iPhone 18 model for longer-term performance headroom.
- If you want a large screen for work but have a limited budget, the report advises considering a phone-plus-tablet setup instead of an expensive foldable.
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