This could be the first time in Apple’s history that the cheapest new iPhone launched at its September event may itself be surprisingly expensive.
The reason is that the standard iPhone 18 is expected to be launched in spring 2027 instead of September this year. This means the iPhone 18 Pro could be the cheapest new iPhone introduced at Apple’s September 9 event.
The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to start at $1,099, which is more than Rs304,000 in Pakistan. However, this price could increase if Apple passes the rising cost of RAM and memory chips on to customers.
In June 2026, Apple CEO Tim Cook said that memory chip prices had increased significantly. Following this, several reports suggested that Apple could raise iPhone prices by at least $100.
Apple is also expected to launch its first foldable iPhone this year. If its price goes above $2,000, Apple’s flagship phones could become some of the most expensive iPhones ever.
Since 2020, Apple has made relatively few changes to the prices of its iPhone models. The standard iPhone has started at $829, while Pro models previously started at $999. Last year, however, Apple launched the iPhone 17 Pro with a starting price of $1,099.
As the standard iPhone 18 is not expected to be launched at the September event, it is still unclear whether Apple will change the prices or availability of its older models.
If the iPhone 18 Pro gets a $100 price increase, its starting price could reach $1,199, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max could start at $1,299.
Meanwhile, the iPhone 17 is currently available for $829, while the iPhone 17e starts at $599. These models are therefore expected to remain the cheapest iPhones available this year.
The iPhone Air currently starts at $999, while a second-generation model is expected to arrive in 2027 alongside the standard iPhone 18.
