Overview
- GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu reports Apple is targeting unchanged starting prices for iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, likely around $1,099 and $1,199.
- Pu says Apple is negotiating with Samsung and SK Hynix and trimming other component costs, with earlier reports noting larger late‑December memory orders from Samsung to lower per‑module pricing.
- Rising DRAM/NAND costs tied to AI demand and a more expensive 2nm A20‑series chip are pressuring budgets, and Tim Cook recently cautioned that memory pricing could bite later this year.
- Design leaks suggest a more unified rear finish, a Dynamic Island roughly 35% smaller thanks to some Face ID parts moving under the display, and tested colors including Coffee Brown, Purple and Burgundy.
- Multiple reports point to a staggered rollout with iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max expected in fall 2026, and the standard iPhone 18 and a lower‑cost 18e tipped for spring 2027.