Apple raises prices on older iPhones by $100 at iPhone 18 launch
Original: There are new shiny iPhones, so Apple is making you pay more for older models
Why This Matters
Apple's break from its traditional pricing model signals a broader industry shift driven by AI-related component demand.
At its Surprise and Shine event on September 9, 2026, Apple unveiled the iPhone 18 and its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, while simultaneously raising prices on existing iPhone models by $100. iPhone 16 now starts at $799, iPhone 17e at $699, iPhone 17 at $899, and iPhone Air at $1,099.
Apple's September 9 event introduced the iPhone 18 and the foldable iPhone Duo, but also brought an unusual pricing move: a $100 increase across existing iPhone models. The iPhone 16 now starts at $799, iPhone 17e at $699, iPhone 17 at $899, and iPhone Air at $1,099. In India, prices reportedly rose by approximately 20.5%. Apple also discontinued the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max. Traditionally, Apple reduces prices on older models when new ones launch — making this a notable departure from standard practice. Key factors cited include a global shortage of memory and storage chips, driven by surging demand from AI companies and cloud providers building large-scale data centers. In a June Wall Street Journal interview, former Apple CEO Tim Cook stated the company could no longer fully absorb rising memory and storage chip costs. Apple had already raised prices across its Mac and iPad lineups about a week after those comments. Additional pressures include rising prices from rivals Samsung and Google. Apple's Upgrade program, which allows monthly installment payments, may help offset consumer reaction to the hike.