TL;DR
Apple has increased prices on most of its products, including Macs and iPads, but 15 items, such as iPhones and certain accessories, have not yet seen a price hike. The company’s rationale may relate to upcoming product releases, particularly the iPhone 18.
Apple has not increased the prices of 15 of its key products, including the iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch Series 11, and various AirPods models, despite widespread hikes on other devices. This selective pricing approach suggests strategic timing ahead of the expected launch of the iPhone 18, which is anticipated to bring higher prices.
Following a broad price increase announced by Apple on June 26, 2026, many Macs, iPads, and accessories now cost significantly more. For example, MacBook Air models and iPads saw increases ranging from $100 to $500. However, 15 products, including the iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch Series 11, and several AirPods models, remain at their previous prices. Apple has not provided specific explanations for this selective pricing, but industry analysts suggest it might be a strategic move ahead of the launch of the upcoming iPhone 18, expected in September, which could come with higher prices.
Apple’s decision to hold prices steady on these products may be related to upcoming product announcements, allowing the company to maintain sales momentum and avoid discouraging early adopters. The iPhone 18, rumored to start at $1,299 or higher, and potentially a foldable variant, are expected to be more expensive, which could justify keeping current prices for the existing models for now.
Why Keeping These Prices Matters for Consumers
This selective pricing impacts consumers planning to buy Apple devices in the short term. By maintaining current prices on popular products like the iPhone 17 and Apple Watch Series 11, Apple may be encouraging purchases before the next generation arrives, which could be priced higher. For buyers, this means acting quickly if they want to avoid future price increases, especially with the anticipated launch of the iPhone 18 in September.
Additionally, this strategy reflects Apple’s approach to balancing profit margins with market demand, especially amid global component shortages that have driven up manufacturing costs for many tech companies.
Apple iPhone 17 case
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Background on Apple’s Recent Price Changes and Strategy
Earlier this month, Apple announced substantial price hikes across many of its product lines, including Macs, iPads, Apple TVs, HomePods, and the Vision Pro headset. These increases ranged from $100 to over $500, driven largely by supply chain constraints and rising component costs, particularly in memory and chips. The company’s decision to raise prices aligns with actions from other tech giants like Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft, who have also adjusted their product prices upward.
Despite these increases, Apple has notably kept prices stable for several key products, including the iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch Series 11, and select AirPods models. While the company has not officially explained this selective approach, industry experts speculate it is a tactical move ahead of the fall product cycle, especially with the expected launch of the iPhone 18, which rumors suggest will be priced higher than current models.
“Pricing decisions are influenced by multiple factors, including upcoming product launches and market conditions.”
— an Apple spokesperson (unofficial)
Apple Watch Series 11 band
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Unclear Reasons Behind Selective Price Stability
It remains uncertain why Apple chose to keep prices unchanged for these specific products while raising others. The company has not provided detailed explanations, and industry analysts rely on inference and rumor. It is also unclear whether this pricing approach will extend beyond the fall, or if subsequent price hikes will affect these products after the iPhone 18 launch.
AirPods Pro 2 wireless earbuds
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Upcoming Apple Launches and Possible Price Adjustments
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 in September, potentially with a higher starting price. The company may also introduce new Apple Watch models, which could follow a similar pricing pattern. Consumers should monitor official announcements for confirmation of any further price changes and consider purchasing current models before new, more expensive devices arrive.
Apple accessories bundle
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Key Questions
Which Apple products have not seen a price increase?
The iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Ultra 3, AirPods Max 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, and AirTags have not yet experienced price hikes.
Why did Apple keep these products at current prices?
Apple has not officially explained, but analysts suggest it may be to encourage sales before the launch of the more expensive iPhone 18, expected in September, which could start at over $1,299.
Will the prices of these products increase later this year?
It is possible, especially after the iPhone 18 launch, but this has not been confirmed. Consumers should stay alert for official announcements and consider buying now if they want to avoid potential future increases.
Could the price stability change for accessories like cases or chargers?
There is no indication that accessory prices will change soon. Currently, Apple has not announced any price adjustments for accessories such as cases or MagSafe chargers.
Source: Lifehacker
