Speculation surrounding next year’s ‘iPhone Fold’ has intensified, with heightened expectations regarding the device’s pricing. This buzz might present Apple with yet another opportunity to explore premium pricing this year with the introduction of an iPhone 17 Ultra. Here’s the reasoning behind this move.
The anticipated cost of the iPhone Fold would represent a significant jump from the current premium models
Following years of incremental updates, the iPhone appears poised for an exciting transformation.
This year, we’re expecting an ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air and substantial design overhauls for the Pro variants. There’s also a possibility that we might see the debut of the first iPhone Ultra.
Looking ahead to next year, the inaugural foldable model from Apple is on the horizon. The ‘iPhone Fold’ could emerge as a compelling 2-in-1 gadget, serving as an iPhone when closed and transforming into an iPad mini when opened.
However, this innovative functionality will inevitably come at a steep price.
Industry analysts, Mark Gurman and Ming-Chi Kuo, both renowned for their accurate predictions, have agreed on the expected pricing for Apple’s new foldable iPhone.
They predict it will launch at approximately $2,000 and possibly increase from there.
For those tracking the foldable market, this price aligns closely with current standards; for instance, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold retails for around $1,899.
However, in comparison to the existing iPhone lineup, a $2,000 price tag represents a substantial increase.
At present, the highest-priced iPhone is the iPhone 16 Pro Max, starting at $1,199.
Thus, if the rumors hold, Apple would be making a significant jump from $1,200 for its most expensive model to as high as $2,000 (or more).
While predicting pricing is notoriously challenging for Apple’s leakers, the $2,000 figure seems plausible given the cost of other foldables.
This rumored pricing might also give Apple an additional incentive to introduce an iPhone 17 Ultra this year.
The iPhone 17 Ultra may serve as an excellent test of premium market interest
Previously, I discussed how rumors regarding the iPhone 17 Pro Max suggest a possible Ultra rebranding.
Current rumors about the 17 Pro Max include:
Typically, Apple maintains similar features between its Pro and Pro Max models, but this year may be different.
If the rumors come to fruition, renaming the Pro Max to iPhone 17 Ultra becomes a valid consideration.
The introduction of both an iPhone Ultra and an iPhone Air in the iPhone 17 lineup could provide Apple with its most captivating range of products in years.
Furthermore, an Ultra model could gauge consumer receptiveness to higher prices than ever before.
Envision Apple launching the iPhone 17 Ultra at around $1,499.
If this model proves to be successful, Apple will be more confident that a $1,999 price point for the iPhone Fold is feasible.
Conversely, if the Ultra’s sales are less than impressive compared to standard Pro Max models, Apple will gain insights into why.
The data garnered from the iPhone 17 Ultra could inform Apple’s pricing strategy for the upcoming iPhone Fold (and possibly additional models) next year.
With Apple shaking up its iPhone offering significantly in the next 18 months, its pricing strategies will also require adjustment.
I believe the iPhone 17 Ultra could not only be well-received by users but also provide Apple with crucial data as they prepare for the launch of their inaugural foldable device—navigating this thrilling new era of iPhones.
What pricing expectations do you have for the iPhone 17 Ultra, and what would you be willing to spend? Share your thoughts in the comments.
