Apple keeps iPhone 18 starting price stable in 2026 despite rising component costs.

Despite growing component costs, especially for memory, Apple is anticipated to maintain the iPhone 18's starting price in 2026. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the company is absorbing higher expenses to remain competitive. LPDDR and NAND flash prices have increased due to growing demand from AI servers; quarterly negotiations are currently underway, and price increases are anticipated in the second quarter. Strong services revenue and a robust supply chain enable Apple to absorb some costs, preventing widespread price increases while possibly modifying premium or higher-storage models. In the face of supply pressures across the industry, this strategy seeks to increase market share and brand loyalty.