Apple may have a plan to 'ensure' you do not pay more for iPhone 18 series Apple is reportedly working on a strategy to avoid raising prices for the upcoming iPhone 18 series, even as global component costs rise. The tech giant is leveraging its financial strength to absorb higher manufacturing expenses rather than passing them on to consumers. This approach aims to maintain price stability in a market marked by supply chain volatility and competitive pricing shifts. Analysts suggest this move could help Apple secure market share by keeping its devices affordable amid rising costs for memory and other critical components. The strategy is tied to Apple’s efforts to manage supply chain pressures, particularly in mobile DRAM and NAND flash memory. A report from Wccftech, citing South Korean sources, indicates Apple is purchasing a significant portion of available mobile DRAM at elevated prices. This decision is intended to secure supply while limiting access for competitors, allowing Apple to control availability and pricing dynamics. The move reflects a broader industry trend of companies prioritizing supply chain stability over immediate cost-cutting, especially as memory prices continue to fluctuate. Analysts have weighed in on Apple’s approach. Ming-Chi Kuo, a TF Securities analyst, noted that Apple may absorb higher memory costs to avoid raising device prices. This strategy, he argued, would position Apple to capture market share despite ongoing disruptions in the memory market. Kuo highlighted that Apple’s ability to negotiate memory prices quarterly—rather than every six months—could lead to further cost increases in the second quarter of 2026. He also emphasized Apple’s leverage in securing chip deals, which allows it to mitigate supply shortages and maintain pricing control.#apple #tim_cook #ming_chi_kuo #wccftech #iphone_18_series
