The iPhone series remains one of the most anticipated smartphone launches worldwide, and fresh reports suggest that Apple is preparing major changes for its upcoming iPhone 18 lineup. According to industry sources, the company is considering both a price increase and a revised launch schedule, particularly affecting the Pro variants.

Market analysts indicate that the prices of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models could rise noticeably. The primary reason cited is the increasing cost of key components such as DRAM and NAND memory chips. With semiconductor manufacturers prioritizing AI servers and data centers, smartphone-grade chips are facing supply constraints. Additionally, the development and production costs of Apple’s next-generation A20 chipset are expected to further elevate manufacturing expenses.

Despite these concerns, financial institutions including Bank of America and JP Morgan believe that Apple may keep the base iPhone 18 model’s price relatively stable. However, a notable change is expected in Apple’s release strategy. Reports suggest that the company may move away from its traditional September launch for all models.

Under the new plan, only the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and the rumored iPhone Fold could debut in September 2026, while the standard iPhone 18 may be pushed to 2027. This shift would mean limited availability of more affordable options during the initial launch phase. Analysts also caution that higher-storage or RAM variants of the base model could still see price adjustments.

Overall, Apple appears to be placing a stronger emphasis on the premium smartphone segment. This strategy could have implications for markets such as India, where mid-range smartphones dominate consumer demand. A significant price hike may impact sales volumes, prompting buyers to either delay upgrades or explore alternative brands.