Apple is preparing to release the iPhone 18 Pro Max, which is expected to be the most expensive iPhone in the company's history.
The device is expected to be officially introduced at an Apple event in September. Reports suggest the September 2026 launch event may include the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a foldable iPhone Ultra.
Cost drivers for new models
The increase in cost is attributed to new generation processor architecture. Additionally, industry reports suggest that production costs for the A20 Pro chip—said to be manufactured using TSMC's advanced 2nm process—could increase by more than 20% compared to previous generation chips.
Component costs are also being impacted by increasing demand for DRAM and NAND storage, driven by AI data centers, cloud infrastructure, and high-end consumer electronics. Some industry reports estimate that memory costs have more than doubled in recent years.
Potential rise in production costs for the A20 Pro chip compared to previous generations.
Pricing and availability
Current iPhone Pro models start at prices of $1,099 and $1,199. Reports suggest a price increase of between $100 and $200 for Pro models.
The foldable iPhone Ultra is expected to start at a price of $2,000. Industry analysts suggest the foldable model will be priced above standard models when it is released.
More affordable models, specifically the iPhone 18e and a new generation iPhone Air, are reported to be delayed until the spring of 2027.
