Too pricey to sell? Apple cuts iPhone 18 Pro orders

Apple has reduced orders for iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max components by at least 15%, citing higher memory chip costs and price increases as the main factors affecting demand, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. The slowdown has also raised concerns about the prospects of Apple's first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, which will be sold for $1,999 (Rs 2,99,900) in the US and India.

Component orders for October have been cut by the suppliers, reflecting weaker-than-expected demand for the premium models. The report suggests that Apple may make further reductions in November, but it remains unclear if the same fate will befall the foldable iPhone Duo. The demand concerns have put the spotlight on the iPhone Duo, with one source noting that the device's starting price is too high for a smartphone.

Apple has been working with suppliers to improve production yields for the foldable device, but the folding screen and Apple's quality requirements add complexity to manufacturing. The softer demand for the Pro models may also be attributed to Apple's decision to change its launch schedule this year, prioritizing three premium models while pushing the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone Air for a spring 2027 release.