The upcoming Apple Apple Inc. iPhone 18 Pro could become significantly more expensive than its predecessor due to rising memory costs and upgraded hardware components, according to new industry estimates.
Reports citing research firm TechInsights and The Wall Street Journal suggest that increasing global memory shortages are driving up the cost of key components used in smartphones, including DRAM and storage chips.
Rising component costs behind price pressure
According to the estimates, DRAM used in Apple’s flagship devices has seen a sharp cost increase. The 12GB memory configuration used in high-end iPhones is now significantly more expensive compared to previous generations.
Similarly, storage costs have also risen, with analysts noting that components which previously cost Apple a relatively small amount per unit have now multiplied several times in price due to supply constraints.
These rising costs are expected to increase the overall bill of materials for the next-generation iPhone lineup.
Higher production costs for Apple
Industry estimates suggest that producing the base model of the previous generation iPhone Pro cost Apple a little over $580, while the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro could see production costs rise to more than $700 per unit.
This jump is largely attributed to more expensive memory components and additional hardware upgrades expected in the new model.
Beyond memory, rumors also suggest that Apple may introduce a new variable-aperture camera system in the iPhone 18 Pro series.
Such an upgrade could significantly improve photography performance but is also expected to increase production costs by as much as 50% compared to current camera systems.
Possible retail price increase
If Apple maintains its current profit margins, analysts estimate that the base version of the iPhone 18 Pro could be priced well above the current generation’s launch price.
Some projections suggest the device could start in the higher price bracket of premium smartphones, with further increases possible depending on configuration and storage options.
However, analysts also note that Apple often adjusts pricing strategies based on market demand, regional pricing, and competition.
What this means for buyers
If the estimates prove accurate, the iPhone 18 Pro could become one of Apple’s most expensive mainstream flagship devices to date.
Consumers may face higher entry costs for premium storage options, while the Pro Max variant could push even further into ultra-premium pricing territory.
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