In recent days, the price of the iPhone 18 Pro has become almost as discussed as its future features. And for once, this is not just the usual “the next iPhone will be more expensive” rumor. The topic is more serious: Apple is facing a real increase in the cost of certain components, especially RAM and storage, two elements that have become crucial with the rise of AI.
The worst-case scenario: an iPhone 18 Pro at $1,399
The first scenario that worried Apple fans comes from estimates suggesting that the iPhone 18 Pro could start at $1,299, or even $1,399 or more, compared with $1,099 for the iPhone 17 Pro in the United States.
The reasoning is simple: if Apple wants to maintain its usual margins despite the rising cost of RAM, storage and some camera modules, the final price would naturally have to go up.
On paper, that logic makes sense. In real life, it is more complicated. Apple does not set prices with a simple calculator. The company also thinks about perception, positioning, psychological thresholds and comparison with competitors. An iPhone Pro starting at $1,399 would send a very strong message. Maybe too strong.
The more likely scenario: a $50 to $100 increase
The more reassuring scenario points instead to a price increase of around $50 to $100 for the iPhone 18 Pro range. In that case, the iPhone 18 Pro would start closer to $1,149 or $1,199, still expensive, but far from the shock of a $1,399 starting price.
In my view, this is the most credible scenario for now. Apple has every reason to avoid a brutal jump from the iPhone 17 Pro. A moderate increase would be easier to justify, especially if the company pairs it with real upgrades: better cameras, a more efficient chip, deeper AI features and more in-house components, possibly including the modem.
What about Europe?
This is where the question becomes more concrete. In many European markets, iPhone Pro prices are already much higher than in the United States because of taxes, exchange rates and Apple’s local pricing strategy.
If Apple applies a moderate increase, the iPhone 18 Pro could realistically move slightly above the current iPhone 17 Pro price. Depending on the country, the base model could land somewhere around €1,379 to €1,429. The iPhone 18 Pro Max could move even closer to the €1,529 to €1,579 range.
These are not official prices, of course. But they are realistic projections if the U.S. increase of $50 to $100 translates into a similar adjustment in euros.
The real issue for Apple is not just selling an expensive smartphone. Apple already does that very well. The risk is pushing the Pro model into a zone where many users start delaying their upgrade. When a phone gets close to €1,500, people no longer replace it “just to see what’s new”. They keep it longer, wait for discounts, or look at the refurbished market.
Apple is walking a very fine line
Apple can justify a price increase if the iPhone 18 Pro brings a real technological leap. But a typical annual improvement, even well marketed, will not be enough to make a large price hike feel acceptable.
The premium smartphone market is already under pressure. Users keep their phones longer, and even loyal iPhone buyers are becoming more rational about price, durability and long-term value.
My impression is quite clear: the iPhone 18 Pro will probably be more expensive, but not at the most alarming level. Apple knows that a $1,399 starting price would change the entire conversation around the product. With a $50 or $100 increase, the pill is bitter, but it can be swallowed. With $300 more, it is no longer a small adjustment. It becomes a strategic shift.
FAQ
Will the iPhone 18 Pro really cost $1,399?
That scenario exists in some estimates, but it seems less likely than a more moderate increase. The most reasonable scenario currently points to a starting price around $1,149 to $1,199 in the United States.
How much could the iPhone 18 Pro cost in Europe?
Based on current Pro pricing, a realistic projection would place the iPhone 18 Pro around €1,379 to €1,429, depending on the country and Apple’s local pricing strategy.
Why would Apple raise its prices?
The main pressure comes from the rising cost of RAM, storage and some camera components. AI is also pushing the industry to use more memory, which affects the entire market.
Should you wait for the iPhone 18 Pro or buy an iPhone 17 Pro?
It will depend on the price difference. If the iPhone 18 Pro becomes significantly more expensive, the iPhone 17 Pro could become much more attractive, especially with discounts or refurbished offers.
I'm Clémentine Pithon, and as a technology enthusiast, I write articles to guide you through the world of refurbished devices. My goal is simple: to help you make informed choices, understand the products, and get the most out of them every day. Tips, explanations, and practical advice are at the heart of my articles.
