TrendForce reports Apple faces a nearly 400% year-over-year memory cost increase for the 256GB iPhone 18 Pro in Q3 2026. A broader memory market upcycle beginning in the second half of 2025 drives this surge. These rising component prices significantly increase the device's total bill of materials.
Apple will likely absorb a portion of these costs to maintain market share during global economic weakness. This strategy will likely pressure the company's gross margins. TrendForce estimates retail prices for the iPhone 18 series will increase by 10% to 20%.