Apple’s next flagship smartphone could arrive with a higher price tag than previous models, according to a new leak. A post shared by tipster Smart Pikachu on the Chinese social media platform Weibo suggests the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max may become Apple’s most expensive non-folding iPhone if the reported pricing proves accurate.
The company has not officially announced the iPhone 18 series or confirmed pricing details. However, the latest report points to rising manufacturing costs, including next-generation chip production and memory prices, as possible reasons for the expected increase.
According to the leak, the iPhone 18 Pro Max could launch in China with a starting price of CNY 11,000 (approximately Rs. 1,56,700).
If accurate, this would represent an increase of around CNY 1,000 (approximately Rs. 14,200) over the expected price of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, making it Apple’s highest-priced non-folding smartphone to date.
| Model | Reported Starting Price (China) |
|---|---|
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | Around CNY 10,000 |
| iPhone 18 Pro Max (Leaked) | CNY 11,000 |
Apple has not commented on the reported pricing.
Chip
One of the main reasons cited for the possible price increase is Apple’s next-generation A20 Pro processor.
The chipset is expected to be manufactured using TSMC’s advanced 2nm process technology, making it the first Apple smartphone chip built on this newer manufacturing node.
Industry estimates suggest that producing chips on the 2nm process is considerably more expensive than the current 3nm technology.
| Manufacturing Process | Estimated Cost Impact |
|---|---|
| 3nm | Current generation |
| 2nm | More than 20% higher manufacturing cost |
The transition to 2nm manufacturing could improve performance and power efficiency, although Apple has not officially confirmed these specifications.
Costs
Reports indicate that TSMC’s 2nm wafers may cost around $30,000 each.
This is estimated to be approximately 50 percent to 66 percent more expensive than comparable 3nm wafers currently used for flagship processors.
Another report also claims Apple has secured more than half of TSMC’s initial 2nm production capacity for its upcoming A20 chip series, which could further increase manufacturing expenses.
Memory
Memory pricing is another factor reportedly affecting smartphone production costs.
According to data from TrendForce cited in the report:
- DRAM contract prices increased by 90 percent to 95 percent during the first quarter.
- Prices rose another 58 percent to 63 percent in the second quarter.
- Combined DRAM and NAND spot prices have reportedly increased by more than 300 percent.
As memory costs continue rising, they now account for more than one-fifth of a smartphone’s component costs, compared with roughly 10 percent to 15 percent previously.
Market
The report notes that Apple is not the only smartphone manufacturer facing higher production expenses.
Several smartphone brands have already increased prices during the year.
| Device Category | Reported Price Increase |
|---|---|
| Mid-range smartphones | CNY 300-CNY 800 |
| Premium flagships | More than CNY 1,000 |
These increases reflect broader industry trends driven by higher component and manufacturing costs.
Launch
Apple has not officially introduced the iPhone 18 lineup, and pricing could still change before launch.
The report also suggests the company may unveil its first foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series, although this remains unconfirmed.
As with all early leaks, specifications, pricing, and launch plans should be treated as unofficial until Apple makes a formal announcement.
The latest leak suggests the iPhone 18 Pro Max could become Apple’s most expensive non-folding smartphone, primarily due to higher manufacturing costs associated with a 2nm processor and rising memory prices. While the reported pricing offers an early indication of what buyers might expect, Apple has not confirmed any details. More information is likely to emerge as the expected launch of the iPhone 18 series approaches.
FAQs
How much could the iPhone 18 Pro Max cost?
The leak suggests a starting price of CNY 11,000 in China.
Why could the price increase?
Higher chip manufacturing and memory costs are cited.
Which chip may power the iPhone 18 Pro Max?
The handset is expected to feature Apple’s A20 Pro chip.
Has Apple confirmed the pricing?
No. Apple has not announced pricing or specifications.
Could Apple launch a foldable iPhone too?
Reports suggest it is possible, but nothing is official.
