Apple is getting ready for one of its biggest iPhone launches in years. The company has officially announced a special Apple Event for September 9, 2026, where the next generation of iPhones is expected to take centre stage.

The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are widely expected to be announced at the event. Apple could also finally enter the foldable smartphone market with a premium device that is currently being referred to as the iPhone Ultra or foldable iPhone.

However, Apple has not officially announced the final specifications or Indian prices of these devices. The prices mentioned in this article are based on current reports and leaks and should be treated as expected prices until Apple makes them official.

iPhone 18 Pro Price in India Expected to Start at ₹1,39,900

The biggest talking point ahead of the launch is pricing. According to recent reports, the iPhone 18 Pro could start at around ₹1,39,900 in India.

If this estimate turns out to be accurate, the new Pro model would be around ₹5,000 more expensive than the reported ₹1,34,900 starting price of the iPhone 17 Pro.

The 256GB version is also tipped to cost around ₹1,44,900.

iPhone 18 Pro Max Could Cost Up to ₹1.6 Lakh

The larger iPhone 18 Pro Max could see an even higher price tag. Current reports indicate that the phone could be priced between approximately ₹1,54,900 and ₹1,59,900 in India.

Some estimates have suggested that higher-storage configurations could push the price even further. The final price will depend on Apple's storage options and its pricing strategy for the Indian market.

Rising memory and storage costs are among the reasons being cited for the expected increase in iPhone prices this year.

Foldable iPhone Ultra Could Cross ₹2 Lakh

Apple's biggest surprise could be its long-rumoured foldable iPhone. Reports suggest that Apple could position the device as an Ultra model, putting it above the regular Pro and Pro Max models.

The expected Indian price could start at around ₹1,89,900, with some estimates putting the device closer to or above ₹2 lakh.

Higher-storage versions could potentially cost substantially more. International reports have also suggested that Apple's foldable iPhone could cross the $2,000 mark, which would make it one of the company's most expensive iPhones ever.

Why Could Apple Increase iPhone 18 Prices?

One of the major reasons being discussed is the rising cost of smartphone components, particularly memory and storage.

Demand for DRAM and other memory components has increased significantly because of the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure and data centres. Higher component costs can eventually put pressure on smartphone manufacturers.

Apple's next-generation processors and camera hardware could also add to production costs. The company is expected to introduce several hardware improvements with the iPhone 18 Pro lineup.

Expected iPhone 18 Pro Features

Apart from pricing, several hardware upgrades are expected for the iPhone 18 Pro models.

• Next-generation A20 Pro chip
• Improved camera system
• Possible variable-aperture camera
• Smaller Dynamic Island
• More RAM for demanding applications and AI features
• Battery improvements
• New colour options
• Further improvements to Apple Intelligence

Some of these specifications remain based on leaks and industry reports, so readers should wait for Apple's official announcement before treating them as confirmed.

iPhone 18 Pro Max May Get Bigger Camera Upgrades

The Pro Max is expected to remain Apple's top conventional iPhone. Reports have suggested that Apple could reserve some of its more advanced camera hardware for the larger model.

A variable-aperture camera has been tipped as one of the possible upgrades. Such a system could give the camera more control over light entering the lens and potentially improve photography in different lighting conditions.

Apple is also expected to continue focusing heavily on computational photography and AI-powered image processing.

What Could Make the Foldable iPhone Different?

Apple's first foldable iPhone would represent a major change from the company's current smartphone design.

Instead of competing directly with standard flagship phones, Apple could position the device as an ultra-premium product designed for buyers who want a larger foldable display in a pocketable form.

Reports have suggested a book-style foldable design, with a large internal display and an external screen for everyday use.

Apple will also need to address several challenges associated with foldable phones, including hinge durability, display creasing, battery capacity and thickness.

iPhone 18 Series Expected Price in India

iPhone 18 Pro Launch Date in India

Apple has officially announced its next Apple Event for September 9, 2026. The event will take place at 10:00 AM PT, which is 10:30 PM IST for viewers in India.

The new iPhone lineup is expected to headline the event. Apple has not yet officially confirmed every model that will be announced, so the final product lineup will be known during the event.

Should You Wait for the iPhone 18 Pro?

If you are planning to buy a premium iPhone, waiting for the September launch could make sense. The new Pro models are expected to bring processor, camera, battery and display-related improvements.

However, buyers who are looking for better value could also benefit from waiting. Once the new generation arrives, older iPhone models may receive discounts from Apple and other retailers.

The foldable iPhone Ultra will be a completely different proposition. If its price approaches ₹2 lakh, it is likely to target buyers who specifically want Apple's first foldable experience rather than consumers looking for the best value iPhone.

iPhone 18 Pro FAQ