Apple Eyes $1,299 iPhone 18 Pro as AI-Driven RAM Shortage Lifts 2026 Prices

3 articles · Updated · Mashable · Jun 24

A September launch is widely expected for Apple’s iPhone 18 lineup, with the iPhone 18 Pro projected to start around $1,299, up $200 from the iPhone 17 Pro.
The increase is tied to an AI-fueled memory shortage: the Wall Street Journal cited analysis showing iPhone 18 Pro memory components could cost Apple $150 more than last year’s model.
Apple is still expected to ship a base iPhone 18, 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max, and could also unveil a foldable iPhone Ultra or iPhone Fold alongside them.
Rumored hardware upgrades include 12GB RAM across the lineup, new A20 and A20 Pro chips, a C2 modem, possible 5G satellite support and brighter displays.
At the high end, the Pro models are tipped for batteries above 5,000mAh and major camera changes, including a variable-aperture system that could sharply improve photo quality.