When a new iPhone is released, prices for existing models typically fall. This year, a different release schedule and rising component prices could break that pattern, a forecast showed. With the possibility that the base iPhone 18 will not be released this year, analysts say the timing of any iPhone 17 price cut could also be pushed back.

On Sept. 6, IT outlet TechRadar reported that Apple may unveil premium models first on Sept. 9, including the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and iPhone 18 Ultra. It said the base iPhone 18 could be released in March or April next year. Other industry analyses have also raised the possibility that the base iPhone 18 launch could be delayed to spring 2027.

Apple often lowers the price of the previous generation base model when it releases a new iPhone. This year, even if the iPhone 18 Pro lineup launches first, the iPhone 17 is likely to remain the latest base model for some time. That makes it likely the iPhone 17 price will not drop immediately.

Rising memory prices are another variable. With memory prices recently surging, smartphone makers' production costs are rising. That has fueled talk that Apple may set iPhone 18 prices higher than existing models and keep iPhone 17 prices at current levels. TrendForce analyzed that higher memory costs could lift the bill of materials for the iPhone 18 series.

The possibility of a price cut for the iPhone 17 has not disappeared completely. If the base iPhone 18 is released early next year, the iPhone 17 would be a model more than 1 year after launch. In that case, Apple could cut prices, but if a cheaper iPhone 18e is released around the same time, Apple could discontinue the iPhone 17 altogether. Forecasts have suggested the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e will be released in spring 2027.

If Apple cuts the iPhone 17 price, the industry suggested it could follow past practice and lower it by $100, or about 134,100 won. That could bring the current iPhone 17 starting price of $799, or about 1.07 million won, down to $699, or about 940,000 won. It forecast that even if such an adjustment happens, it is more likely to occur next year than this year.

For the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, discontinuation is seen as more likely than a price cut. Apple has typically removed the previous generation Pro models from its sales lineup when it releases new Pro models.

Even if Apple does not lower official prices, discounts through outside retailers are possible. If the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are discontinued, many sellers could cut prices to clear inventory. Prices for existing models could also fall in the second-hand market after new iPhones are unveiled.

As a result, consumers who do not plan to buy an iPhone 18 and are looking for a cheaper iPhone may find it advantageous to check prices and inventory after the Sept. 9 product unveiling. Analysts said waiting for discounts could also risk inventory running out, so it may be better not to delay purchases too long.