Apple delays cheaper iPhone 18 models as component costs rise

Apple is revising its iPhone 18 rollout because the price of key components such as NAND flash and DRAM has surged. Leaked information indicates that only the flagship iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max and a new iPhone Fold will be released at the start of 2027, while lower‑end models – iPhone 18, 18e and Air – are expected to be postponed to February 2027. The higher component costs are forcing Apple to protect its profit margins, prompting Citi to raise its stock price target and analysts to forecast continued sales growth despite the pricier devices.

A Counterpoint Research report confirms that the bill of materials for the iPhone 18 Pro Max has risen by roughly US$300, lifting the total production cost from about US$500 for the iPhone 17 Pro Max to around US$800. The increase is driven primarily by DRAM and NAND price hikes linked to the AI boom. Apple may absorb part of the extra expense, but reduced margins could lead to higher retail prices for the next‑generation iPhone.