Apple's iPhones go Pro, their prices go Pro Max; but why most buyers may still pay
The steep rise in Apple's iPhone prices in India poses a challenge for many consumers, with new models like the iPhone 18 Pro and Duo fetching premium prices. Older iPhones are also experiencing a price hike, diminishing affordability. Nevertheless, these devices maintain a strong aspirational allure and resale value, leading to a stark divide in the market, favored by affluent buyers who…
Apple has made its iPhones more expensive in India, but the company's carefully crafted pricing strategy may still leave many buyers unable to afford the devices. The latest pricing sees the iPhone 18 Pro starting at Rs 1,64,900 and the Pro Max at Rs 1,79,900. The foldable iPhone Duo is even more expensive, with a base variant at Rs 2,99,900, rising to Rs 4,49,900 with 2TB storage.
The iPhone 17 and 17e have also seen price increases, starting at Rs 99,900 and Rs 79,900, respectively. Even buying older models no longer guarantees a significant discount.
India has seen some of Apple's steepest price hikes this year, with certain models increasing by up to 41%. This is surprising given that India is a growing iPhone manufacturing and export base. The affordability issue is steepening, with the iPhone no longer being accessible to many Indian buyers. While the Pro models may be a niche showcase for wealthy early adopters, the Pro and Pro Max have become central to Apple's image and annual upgrade cycle.
The higher prices could lead consumers to hold onto their phones longer, buy refurbished devices, or wait for online sales.
However, Apple has shown that conventional affordability calculations do not always explain premium-phone demand in India. The iPhone is not just a device; it carries social and aspirational value, offering a status symbol and entry into Apple's ecosystem. This appeal has helped Apple maintain its position even when cheaper Android phones offer similar specifications.
The iPhone 16 became India's bestselling smartphone in the final quarter of 2025, demonstrating Apple's ability to generate mass demand through festive discounts, bank offers, and exchange incentives.
India's premium smartphone market has also expanded as consumers move up from phones costing Rs 30,000–40,000 to more expensive options, driven by financing and rising expectations around cameras, gaming, durability, and brand value. Apple benefits from strong resale values, with iPhones retaining more value than many competing devices.
This allows for exchange bonuses and long software support, enabling customers to spread the cost over four to five years. The iPhone Duo may reinforce Apple's aspirational pull, attracting buyers with its exclusivity, even if it remains inaccessible to most consumers. Ultimately, the iPhone is not becoming entirely out of reach, but the gap between affordability and desire in India's premium market remains significant.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
