Home / Technology / Apple Absorbs Memory Costs for New iPhones
Apple Absorbs Memory Costs for New iPhones
28 Jan
Summary
- Samsung may raise iPhone memory prices by over 80%.
- Apple will reportedly keep iPhone 18 prices the same.
- AI demand is causing global shortages of key components.
The global RAM crisis, fueled by the insatiable demand from AI data centers, is creating significant supply chain pressures. Samsung is reportedly considering price increases of over 80% for iPhone memory components, with other suppliers like SK Hynix also poised to raise prices significantly.
Despite these looming cost increases, Apple is anticipated to maintain the same starting prices for its upcoming iPhone 18 models, expected in September 2026. Analysts suggest Apple will absorb these higher costs, using the "market chaos" as an opportunity to draw in more consumers.
This situation highlights Apple's ongoing negotiations, now conducted quarterly rather than semi-annually, to secure memory pricing. Concerns are rising that shortages may extend beyond memory and T-Glass to other critical components as AI server farms continue to dominate supply. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are slated for a September 2026 release, with the base iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 following in spring 2027.
