Apple May Hike iPhone 17 Prices Despite Dodging Trump’s Tariffs
Apple May Hike iPhone 17 Prices Despite Dodging Trump’s Tariffs
Apple has so far managed to navigate former President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs, but consumers may soon feel the pinch as analysts predict price hikes with the launch of the iPhone 17.
For months, Apple CEO Tim Cook has been praised for his ability to shield the company from the harshest tariff impacts. His efforts included a $100 billion U.S. investment pledge on top of Apple’s already planned $500 billion commitment, a move Trump touted as a victory for American manufacturing. In exchange, Apple secured exemptions on certain chip tariffs that could have doubled production costs.
Still, Wall Street analysts believe Apple won’t hold out much longer. Jeffries analyst Edison Lee projects a $50 bump in the iPhone 17’s average selling price, while others at Goldman Sachs say a shift toward higher-end models is already lifting the company’s overall pricing strategy.
Other consumer goods—like apparel, footwear, coffee, and even game consoles from Sony and Microsoft—have already seen tariff-driven price hikes. So far, smartphones have largely been spared, but Apple could be the next to follow.
Apple is expected to unveil four new iPhone 17 models this month. Last year’s lineup included the iPhone 16 starting at $829 and the Pro Max topping out at $1,199. This year, analysts expect Apple to drop the underperforming “Plus” and introduce a slimmer, lighter device around the $899 range, though pricing changes are not ruled out.
Historically, Apple has been cautious with major price jumps, but it has gradually nudged costs higher by eliminating lower-priced models and increasing storage tiers. Some analysts suggest Apple may quietly phase out the entry-level Pro model, pushing the starting price of the iPhone 17 Pro to $1,099.
Even if tariffs aren’t the official reason, rising component costs and the global trend of pricier smartphones are driving forces Apple can’t ignore. With AI-powered chips, larger displays, and expanded memory expected in this year’s lineup, Apple will likely spotlight innovation—while consumers foot a slightly higher bill.
