iPhone 15 Pro to burn a bigger hole in your wallet

In a surprising turn of events, Apple enthusiasts may have to brace themselves for an unprecedented price hike in the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro models. Speculations and leaked reports indicate that the tech giant is contemplating a substantial increase in prices for its highly anticipated 2023 iPhones.

Renowned Wall Street analyst, Dan Ives, who had previously cautioned about the soaring prices of the iPhone 14 series, recently disclosed in an interview with CNBC that Apple intends to raise the price of both the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models by an estimated $200 (roughly equivalent to Rs 16,490). This revelation has sent shockwaves through the industry, hinting at a significant shift in Apple's pricing strategy.

Although the exact pricing details have not been divulged by the analyst, he firmly asserts that the Pro models are likely to witness a staggering $200 surge in price. If his predictions hold true, it implies a substantial financial burden for consumers intending to acquire the latest Apple flagship devices.

The United States, usually an exception to Apple's price hikes, may no longer enjoy that privilege. While the prices of the iPhone 14 Pro variants remained unchanged in the US, this year's models are expected to command a much steeper price tag. Unfortunately, international markets that experienced considerable price increases with the iPhone 14 Pro models are now bracing themselves for a second wave of price surges in 2023.

To put this into perspective, the base model of the iPhone 14 Pro retailed at Rs 1,29,900 in India, while in the US, it was priced at $999 (approximately Rs 82,380). If Apple indeed raises the price by $200, the new US price would amount to $1,199, roughly translating to Rs 98,850 in India.

However, it is crucial to note that the Indian market may face additional charges such as GST and customs, making it highly unlikely for Apple to launch the iPhone 15 Pro at the same price in India. The Indian price of the iPhone 14 Pro model was already approximately Rs 47,500 higher than its US counterpart, indicating that the iPhone 15 Pro models could be significantly more expensive in India.

Similarly, the iPhone 14 Pro Max debuted at $1,099, equivalent to around Rs 90,626. With a potential $200 price increase, the iPhone 15 Pro Max may be priced at $1,299 (approximately Rs 1,07,090). Nevertheless, just like its counterpart, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is anticipated to experience varying prices in India. Last year, the iPhone 14 Pro Max entered the Indian market at a staggering Rs 1,39,900, showcasing a considerable Rs 32,800 disparity with the US pricing.

Now, one might question whether Apple will maintain its existing pricing structure for the iPhone 15 Pro models in India, given that the devices are being manufactured in the country. However, at present, no official information is available regarding Indian prices, leaving consumers in suspense. Apple has historically refrained from altering the prices of its iPhones from the 12th to the 14th generation, but considering the potential price hikes, it is plausible that the iPhone 15 Pro may deviate from this trend.

As we eagerly await the launch of the iPhone 15 series, which is expected in approximately two months as per Apple's customary September release schedule, more details about the highly anticipated 2023 iPhones are bound to surface. Will Apple's pricing decisions revolutionize the smartphone industry, or will consumers be forced to bear the brunt of escalating costs? Only time will reveal the fate of Apple's upcoming flagship devices. Stay tuned for further updates as the launch event draws near.