In a recent research note, Jeff Pu from Hong Kong-based investment firm Haitong International Securities anticipates the iPhone 15 Pro models will undergo a price increase due to multiple rumored hardware enhancements, such as a titanium frame, solid-state buttons with haptic feedback from additional Taptic Engines, an A17 Bionic chip, increased RAM, and a periscope lens for enhanced optical zoom on the Pro Max model, among others.
This marks the second time a price increase has been rumored for iPhone 15 Pro models, following an unverified claim on the Chinese social media platform Weibo in January. However, it is still uncertain whether Apple will ultimately raise the prices for these devices. In the U.S., the Pro model has started at $999 since the iPhone X’s launch in 2017, and the Pro Max has started at $1,099 since the release of the iPhone XS Max the following year.
Outside the U.S., iPhone prices have increased multiple times in recent years, mainly due to fluctuations in foreign currencies. In the U.K., for instance, the iPhone 14 Pro starts at £1,099, compared to £949 for the iPhone 13 Pro.
A price increase in the U.S. is plausible, given the above-average inflation rates. While Apple has maintained consistent starting prices for six consecutive generations of Pro models, it is likely that prices will need to increase for the company to preserve its profit margins. It remains uncertain whether the standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus would also experience a price hike compared to the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, which start at $799 and $899, respectively.
The iPhone 15 series is expected to be unveiled in September, as is customary. Rumors suggest all four devices will feature a USB-C port, the Dynamic Island, and a slightly more curved frame, with over 10 additional features and changes anticipated for the Pro models.