Tech enthusiasts and Apple fans around the world are waiting for the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro, which is expected to bring major upgrades. However, there could be disappointing news for those planning to get their hands on the new flagship device, as the Pro models may come with a much higher price tag.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are rumored to be launched with cutting-edge hardware, major camera upgrades, deeper AI integration, and a price tag that could shock even longtime iPhone buyers. The tech giant may increase prices of its upcoming Pro models by as much as $250–$300 (around 80 thousand Pak Rupee) compared with the current 17 series.
There is huge semiconductor costs, expensive next-generation memory, and growing competition for advanced chips as the AI industry consumes more global production capacity. If the estimates prove accurate, the iPhone 18 Pro lineup could enter a new pricing era, pushing Apple’s flagship smartphones further into ultra-premium territory.
iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1,099, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max begins at $1,199. A significant increase could place future Pro models among the most expensive mainstream smartphones ever released.
Lately, Apple jacked up prices across several product categories, including Macs, iPads, HomePods, Apple TV, and Vision Pro. iPhone lineup was one of the few products to avoid a major increase, but that may change with the arrival of the iPhone 18 Pro. The company has not officially confirmed any pricing changes. During Apple’s latest earnings call, CEO Tim Cook avoided discussing whether future iPhones would become more expensive.
Instead of launching the entire iPhone 18 lineup together, Apple is reportedly planning a two-stage rollout. iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to debut in September 2026 alongside Apple’s first foldable iPhone. Meanwhile, the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and second-generation iPhone Air could arrive months later in spring 2027.
iPhone 18 Pro lineup may look familiar at first glance, but Apple is reportedly preparing several subtle design changes. The display sizes are expected to remain unchanged:
- iPhone 18 Pro: approximately 6.3 inches
- iPhone 18 Pro Max: approximately 6.9 inches
The biggest visual upgrade could be a smaller Dynamic Island. Apple is rumored to be moving parts of the Face ID system beneath the display, allowing the front cutout to shrink significantly. Some reports suggest the Dynamic Island could become around 35% narrower, while other leaks claim an even larger reduction.
Pro Max model could become slightly thicker or heavier as Apple makes room for a larger battery and improved thermal management.
New rumored finishes include Dark Cherry, Light Blue, Dark Gray and Silver. Meanwhile, Cosmic Orange and Deep Blue could disappear from the lineup.
Apple may finally introduce one of the most requested camera features: a variable aperture system. iPhone 18 Pro’s main 48-megapixel camera is rumored to gain a physical aperture mechanism, allowing the lens to adjust how much light enters the sensor. It may also introduce new stacked three-layer camera sensor, reportedly developed with Samsung technology. The upgrade could improve image speed, reduce noise, and expand dynamic range.
The rear camera system is expected to continue using three 48-megapixel sensors, while the front camera may receive a modest update to around 18 megapixels.
iPhone 18 Pro starting price to be around $1,299 as Apple faces soaring parts costs
