Apple Reportedly Considering Price Increase for High-End iPhone Pros
According to a recent Bloomberg News report, Apple is contemplating raising the price of its high-end iPhone Pros when new models are released this fall. Since 2019, Apple has offered the iPhone Pro starting at $999 in the U.S., while the Max model with a larger screen starts at $1099.
Apple typically unveils its new iPhones in September, and this year’s high-end models could see a price hike. The move is aimed at boosting Apple’s overall revenue by increasing the average selling price of new iPhones.
During the pandemic, Apple refrained from raising prices for its new iPhone models in the U.S., even as the company faced challenges such as parts shortages and inflation-related costs for services like freight and parts. However, Apple does adjust prices for its products in various regions worldwide to account for currency fluctuations, as seen with last year’s iPhone 14 devices.
Apple has not officially commented on the potential price increase at this time.
In addition to a possible price hike, the new iPhone models are rumored to come with a USB-C charger instead of the proprietary Lightning charger, following new European regulations. Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also suggests that the Pro models could feature a titanium case and thinner bezels.
The price increase could help Apple capitalize on recent trends in the smartphone industry. Despite an overall decline in smartphone shipments over the past year, analysts believe that consumers still have a strong appetite for the best and most expensive devices.
Deutsche Bank analyst Sidney Ho noted, “While the recovery in global smartphone demand is below expectations, it appears that the premium market (and hence Apple) is less impacted.” This indicates that there is a market for high-end smartphones, and Apple aims to take full advantage of it.
As of now, Apple has not provided any official statement regarding the potential price increase for its upcoming high-end iPhone Pros. Consumers will have to wait for the official announcement in September to learn more about the new models and their respective price points.