Apple faces rising RAM and storage costs. WSJ, citing Tech Insights, estimates iPhone 18 Pro will start at $1,399 or higher, up from $1,099 for the 17 Pro. The rise reflects $200‑300 extra component costs and a camera system 50% pricier. Apple plans a September launch, the steepest flagship price hike since the iPhone 12 series.

Tim Cook told the Wall Street Journal Apple isn’t immune to soaring chip prices and that the company is working through pricing. Maintaining that margin required a base price of $1,371, but Apple prefers round numbers, nudging the launch price upward. At that price Apple would preserve a 44% gross margin, to models. Analysts expect the base model at $1,299‑$1,399, with Pro Max $100 higher.

The iPhone 18 Pro Max will sit around $1,500, and the upcoming iPhone Ultra near $2,000, tightening the spread between Apple’s top tiers. Consumers confront a steeper upgrade cost, and suppliers could see more high‑margin component sales. For many buyers, the jump erodes the price advantage that once made the Pro line competitive. Apple’s pricing reflects mounting supply‑chain pressure.