Price Rumors: What’s Really Changing?
Early reports raised alarms about sweeping price increases for Apple’s flagship lineup. However, new insights from JPMorgan reveal that most iPhone 17 models will retain familiar price tags, bringing reassurance to buyers. Here’s what to expect:
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iPhone 17: Starts at $799, unchanged from iPhone 16.
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iPhone 17 Air: Replaces the 16 Plus, possibly priced at $899-$949—only a $50 increase due to its thinner, redesigned build.
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iPhone 17 Pro: Starts at $1,099, $100 higher, but now with 256GB base storage (up from 128GB).
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iPhone 17 Pro Max: Holds at $1,199 for the 256GB base model; no price rise.
This strategy softens the impact for Pro buyers, as the price jump matches the higher storage tier offered in past Pro models.
Why the Price Adjustment Is Limited
JPMorgan’s research points to the Pro model as the only device facing a direct price increase—yet this is offset by the doubled base storage, making it a more attractive deal. Apple seems to be keeping its core lineup accessible for mainstream buyers, consistent with its history of stable launch pricing in the US.
The only other potential change concerns the new Air variant, which may see a modest $50 rise thanks to its new design and engineering costs.
What About Other Markets?
So far, these price projections apply to the US market. It’s uncertain if similar adjustments will be seen globally. In regions like India, iPhones have typically launched at higher equivalent prices—a local reveal will confirm what Apple has planned for international buyers.
Should Buyers Be Concerned?
With the iPhone 17 launch days away, most buyers won’t experience the steep hikes some analysts feared. Instead, Apple delivers a refreshed lineup with Pro-tier improvements while keeping standard models budget-friendly.
For those eyeing flagship performance, the Pro’s doubled storage and modest price bump could offer greater value than last year.
Apple’s actual pricing moves for the iPhone 17 series seem far less aggressive than rumored, giving buyers more reason to feel confident about upgrading this year.
