Apple May Raise iPhone Prices, New Report Claims
Apple is likely planning its first major price hike in years for the iPhone 17 series, with reports citing tariffs and next-gen designs as key reasons.
Summary
- Apple may raise iPhone prices with the release of the iPhone 17 series in September 2025.
- Design upgrades and import tariffs are likely reasons for the increase.
- The ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air could be the new premium model that drives pricing higher.
Why Apple Might Raise iPhone Prices?
According to new reports from Bloomberg and The Wall Street Journal, Apple is preparing to raise iPhone prices with the launch of the iPhone 17 lineup. If true, this would mark Apple’s first major price jump in the U.S. in eight years. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman notes that Apple considered this move as early as April in response to Trump’s new tariffs, though it hasn’t confirmed exact figures yet.
What’s Driving the Price Hike?
The iPhone 17 price boost isn’t just about tariffs—Apple is reportedly positioning the change around new features and major design shifts. Chief among them is the rumored iPhone 17 Air, an ultra-thin model meant to bring a new premium tier to the iPhone family. Sources say Apple is deliberately avoiding linking the price hike directly to ongoing U.S.–China trade tensions, even though the company could face up to $900 million in extra import costs this quarter.
Will the Current Models Get Cheaper?
When Apple launches new models in the fall, the older iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are likely to get price cuts—possibly by $100. But it’s worth noting that this discount could be $100 off a newly inflated base price. That means what feels like a discount may not be as generous as in years past.
How Tariffs and Manufacturing Are Shaping Prices?
Even with a 90-day pause in reciprocal tariffs, many Chinese imports still face 20–30% duties. Apple has increased production in India to reduce its China dependence, with Foxconn expected to double Indian output to 30 million iPhones by the end of 2025. However, for its 20th anniversary model in 2027, production may still be based in China due to supply chain complexity.
Pros
- Apple plans to offer major design and feature upgrades
- New models like iPhone 17 Air could justify higher prices
- Manufacturing diversification may reduce long-term costs
Cons
- Consumers may react negatively to a noticeable price hike
- Tariffs are still an unpredictable factor
- Existing iPhones may only get smaller-than-expected price cuts
Conclusion
If you’re thinking of upgrading your iPhone this year, it might be smart to buy before September. Apple appears ready to raise iPhone prices as it introduces the iPhone 17 series, featuring new designs and possibly a premium “Air” version. While the exact increase isn’t confirmed, all signs point to a shift in Apple’s pricing strategy after nearly a decade of stability.
FAQs
Q: When will Apple raise iPhone prices?
A: Most likely in September 2025, when the iPhone 17 series is expected to launch.
Q: Why is Apple raising iPhone prices?
A: Due to tariffs, rising costs, and a major redesign including the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air.
Q: Will older iPhones get cheaper?
A: Likely yes, but the discount may be less generous if it’s based on the new higher price baseline.
