Category: Phones

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  • Apple Cuts iPhone Air Orders to End of Production Levels

    Apple Cuts iPhone Air Orders to End of Production Levels

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone Air is underperforming in various markets, leading to significant production cuts shortly after its release.
    2. iPhone Air now accounts for less than 10% of Apple’s smartphone orders, down from 15%.
    3. Total iPhone production remains stable due to strong sales of the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro models.
    4. The iPhone 17 features a new 120 Hz ProMotion display and has received a positive review rating of 88%.
    5. The iPhone Air’s decline may indicate a shift towards developing a foldable iPhone expected to launch in 2026.

    The slimmest iPhone of this generation might soon disappear.

    Reports indicate that the iPhone Air is not performing well in various markets, leading Apple to significantly cut production orders for this new model just about a month after it was released. Sources close to Apple’s production lines, as reported by Nikkei Asia, suggest that the iPhone Air now represents under 10% of all smartphone orders from Apple, a noticeable drop from its earlier 15% share in iPhone manufacturing.

    Production Levels Decline

    One insider mentioned that this diminished figure suggests the Air is nearing its “end of production” phase.

    In a twist, total iPhone production orders are mostly stable. This is largely due to the overwhelming success of the base iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Pro, both of which have surpassed sales predictions. The iPhone 17 features a new 120 Hz ProMotion display, a technology that used to be exclusive to the pricier Pro and Pro Max versions, along with other attractive features like enhanced storage for the base model. For context, the iPhone 17 earned an impressive 88% rating in our review.

    Future Prospects

    While the reduced orders for the iPhone Air might hint at no future models, Nikkei cites three insiders who claim the main aim of the iPhone Air was to “strategically pave the way for the first foldable iPhone,” which is expected to launch in 2026.

    On a brighter note, Nikkei reports that there are no wait times for the iPhone Air, unlike the several weeks consumers are facing for other models.

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  • OnePlus Phone Leak: Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and 8,000mAh Battery

    OnePlus Phone Leak: Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and 8,000mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Two new OnePlus smartphones, the OnePlus 15 and Ace 6, will be launched on October 27 in China.
    2. An upcoming performance-focused device may be part of the Ace series, featuring a 165Hz display with 1.5K resolution.
    3. The new device is expected to use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, which may outperform the Snapdragon 8 Elite used in the OnePlus 15 and Ace 6.
    4. It will have a large battery capacity exceeding 8,000mAh, making it the biggest battery in a OnePlus device to date.
    5. The anticipated release for this new phone is by the end of the year, aligning with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 launch.

    Two new OnePlus smartphones are set to be released this month in China, specifically the OnePlus 15 and the Ace 6. After these launches, OnePlus might unveil a new performance-focused device. This information about the unknown phone comes from the well-known tipster Digital Chat Station, who shared insights on the Chinese social media platform Weibo. The leaker has provided some important details regarding the device and its expected launch period.

    Potential Name and Features

    The leaker has not disclosed the name of the upcoming phone. It might be part of the Ace series, which is OnePlus’ sub-flagship range for the Chinese market. Reports suggest that it will sport a 165Hz display boasting a 1.5K resolution.

    Powerful Processor and Comparison

    One of the standout features of this device will be its Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor. This is a premium chipset that is set to debut later this year. According to the tipster, it might perform a bit better than the Snapdragon 8 Elite, which is what the OnePlus Ace 6 will use. However, it’s important not to mix up the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, as the latter is a flagship processor found in devices like the Xiaomi 17 series, OnePlus 15, iQoo 15, Realme GT 8 Pro, and more.

    Impressive Battery Capacity

    Another significant feature of the upcoming OnePlus device is that it will come equipped with a larger battery, exceeding 8,000mAh. In contrast, the OnePlus 15 and Ace 6 come with batteries of 7,300mAh and 7,800mAh, respectively. This indicates that the new phone could have the biggest battery ever seen in a OnePlus device.

    In terms of timing for the release, the tipster has indicated that the phone is expected to launch by the end of this year. This coincides with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 launch, suggesting it could be one of the initial devices featuring the new chipset.

    Upcoming Launch Dates

    On a related note, the company is set to unveil the OnePlus 15 and the Ace 6 on October 27 in China. Recently, OnePlus also shared camera specifications for its flagship powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

    OnePlus Phone Leak: Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and 8,000mAh BatteryOnePlus Phone Leak: Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and 8,000mAh BatteryOnePlus Phone Leak: Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and 8,000mAh Battery

     

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  • OnePlus Mid-Range Showdown: Which Model Is Worth Your Money?

    OnePlus Mid-Range Showdown: Which Model Is Worth Your Money?

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OnePlus Nord 5 is priced around $560, while the OnePlus Nord CE 5 is more affordable at about $320, raising questions about the value of the higher-priced model.
    2. The OnePlus Nord CE 5 competes strongly with the Nord 5, even outperforming it in some areas despite being a “Lite” version.
    3. Both models have similar performance and camera systems, with only minor differences in features like front camera resolution and macro capability.
    4. The Nord 5 offers some premium features like wired reverse charging and a glass back, but the differences between the two phones are minimal given the price gap.
    5. For those seeking good value, the OnePlus Nord CE 5 is recommended due to its comparable performance and lower cost.

    We have recently taken a look at the OnePlus Nord CE 5, and not long ago, we also shared our comprehensive review of the OnePlus Nord 5. Both of these devices belong to the mid-range category from OnePlus, yet they vary in pricing: the OnePlus Nord 5 is around $560, while the OnePlus Nord CE 5 retails for about $320. This notable difference in price invites the question: is the OnePlus Nord 5 really worth the higher price tag?

    Strong Competition

    Interestingly, OnePlus might have made a wise move in only putting out a “Lite” version of its Nord CE series lately, as the OnePlus Nord CE 5 shows itself to be a formidable rival to the OnePlus Nord 5, even boasting slightly better performance in some areas.

    Similar Performance

    When it comes to performance, the two models are quite alike. They share almost the same camera systems, with the exception of the OnePlus Nord 5’s higher resolution front camera and its capability to take macro shots.

    The OnePlus Nord CE 5 also features a screen that’s brighter, despite having a lower resolution. Sure, you get a maximum refresh rate of 144 Hz with the OnePlus Nord 5, while the more affordable model offers 120 Hz. But honestly, will users really spot the difference in daily use? Likely not.

    Minor Differences

    Even in terms of Wi-Fi speed, both smartphones are quite comparable.

    The OnePlus Nord 5 provides wired reverse charging and stereo speakers. Its back is crafted from glass, which gives it a more luxurious feel than the plastic back of the Nord CE 5.

    In general, it’s quite remarkable how little separates these two models, especially considering their price gap of over $200.

    With such a large difference in price and minimal variation in performance and features, we would wholeheartedly suggest the OnePlus Nord CE 5 if you’re looking for the best value for your money.

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  • Nubia Z80 Ultra: 35mm Camera Flagship with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

    Nubia Z80 Ultra: 35mm Camera Flagship with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nubia Z80 Ultra is the successor to the Z70 Ultra and Z70S Ultra, maintaining a rectangular design similar to other premium ZTE devices.
    2. It features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and a powerful 7,200 mAh battery with fast charging capabilities (80 W wireless, 90 W USB Type-C).
    3. The phone includes advanced photography options, with macro photography possible from 15 cm and a hidden front camera using under-panel technology.
    4. The 6.85-inch AMOLED display has a resolution of 2,688 x 1,216 pixels, a 144 Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits.
    5. Pricing starts at CNY 4,999 (around $702) for 12 GB RAM and 512 GB storage, with an upgrade option to 16 GB RAM and 1 TB storage for CNY 5,699 (approximately $800).

    The Nubia Z80 Ultra has been officially announced as the successor to the Z70 Ultra and Z70S Ultra models. True to expectations, Nubia’s newest Z series phone keeps the same rectangular style found in other premium devices made by its parent company ZTE, which includes the gaming-centric RedMagic 10 Air and RedMagic 10 Pro (currently priced at $899 on Amazon).

    Powerful Performance

    In line with the recent RedMagic 11 Pro, the Nubia Z80 Ultra features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. Nubia pairs this with a robust 7,200 mAh battery, capable of charging wirelessly at 80 W and via USB 3.2 Type-C at 90 W. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 manages images through four different cameras, providing users with versatile photography options.

    Innovative Features

    Moreover, the Z80 Ultra allows macro photography from as close as 15 cm using its ultra-wide-angle camera. Nubia has chosen to conceal the front camera using under-panel technology, which keeps the 6.85-inch AMOLED screen free from any camera cutout. This impressive display boasts a resolution of 2,688 x 1,216 pixels, features a 2,592 Hz PWM frequency, a 144 Hz refresh rate, and a touch sampling rate of 3,000 Hz, although its peak brightness of 2,000 nits is somewhat lacking.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Nubia Z80 Ultra is priced starting at CNY 4,999 (around $702) in China, offering 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. For those wanting more power, it can also be upgraded to 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage for CNY 5,699 (approximately $800). Additionally, the camera kit shown below is available for CNY 699 (about $98). Nubia has also provided some initial details regarding the global launch of the smartphone, which we have discussed in a separate article.

    Nubia Z80 Ultra: 35mm Camera Flagship with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5Nubia Z80 Ultra: 35mm Camera Flagship with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5Nubia Z80 Ultra: 35mm Camera Flagship with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

     

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  • OnePlus Ace 6 vs OnePlus 13: Early Benchmarks with Snapdragon 8 Elite

    OnePlus Ace 6 vs OnePlus 13: Early Benchmarks with Snapdragon 8 Elite

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus will soon launch two new smartphones: the OnePlus 15 and OnePlus Ace 6, initially in China.
    2. The OnePlus Ace 6 features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and has competitive performance scores compared to the OnePlus 15.
    3. The Ace 6 achieved a multi-core score of 9,440, surpassing the OnePlus 13’s average score of 9,369.
    4. The Ace 6 is expected to run on Android 16 and offer configurations with up to 16 GB of RAM.
    5. The official unveiling of the Ace 6 is on October 27, with the global launch of the OnePlus 15R set for November 13.

    OnePlus is set to reveal two new smartphones shortly, as confirmed by the company. The upcoming devices are the OnePlus 15 and the OnePlus Ace 6, which will first be available in China. Global releases for both models are expected to occur soon after.

    Performance Insights

    Recently, the OnePlus Ace 6 has appeared on Geekbench. It seems that this smartphone is trailing behind the OnePlus 15 in both single-core and multi-core scores on Geekbench 6. However, the Ace 6 boasts a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which aligns it closely with the current OnePlus 13, which is priced at $849.99 on Amazon.

    Strikingly, the OnePlus Ace 6 even surpasses the OnePlus 13 in performance at times. Although it currently has a slight disadvantage in single-core performance, this difference can likely be attributed to the Ace 6 utilizing pre-release software.

    Impressive Scores

    The OnePlus Ace 6 has already achieved an impressive multi-core score of 9,440, which is higher than the average score of 9,369 we obtained when we reviewed the OnePlus 13 last year. The leaked Geekbench data also suggests that the Ace 6 will come with Android 16 and offer configurations with up to 16 GB of RAM. OnePlus is scheduled to officially unveil the Ace 6 on October 27, with a global launch of the OnePlus 15R expected on November 13.

    OnePlus Ace 6 vs OnePlus 13: Early Benchmarks with Snapdragon 8 EliteOnePlus Ace 6 vs OnePlus 13: Early Benchmarks with Snapdragon 8 Elite

     

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  • Samsung May Reverse Galaxy S26 Series Changes: Report

    Samsung May Reverse Galaxy S26 Series Changes: Report

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is reverting to its original naming scheme for the Galaxy S26 series, likely including the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra.
    2. The previously rumored Galaxy S26 Edge and Galaxy S26 Pro names are no longer being pursued, suggesting a return to simpler model designations.
    3. There is uncertainty around the Galaxy S26 Edge, as its development may have been halted due to disappointing sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge.
    4. Consumer preferences indicate a declining interest in thin and light phones, influencing Samsung’s decision-making.
    5. Similar trends are seen with Apple’s iPhone Air, which may also face cancellation due to poor sales.

    From what appeared to be a major change for the Galaxy S26 series, it seems that Samsung is reversing its plans. Initially, the company was rumored to rebrand the standard Galaxy S26 and completely remove the Plus version. However, new details from a reliable leaker suggest that Samsung is returning to its previous naming system and lineup for its upcoming flagship series.

    Background of Changes

    Back in July, there were reports indicating that the Korean tech giant intended to revamp the Galaxy S26 series. It was claimed that the Galaxy S26 Edge would take the place of the Galaxy S26 Plus, while the standard Galaxy S26 would be renamed to Galaxy S26 Pro. This change would also imply that neither a Galaxy S26 nor a Galaxy S26 Plus would be part of the future lineups.

    Current Insights

    Recently, tipster Yogesh Brar shared on X that Samsung is reverting to its original naming scheme. No sources were cited for this information. As a result, the upcoming flagship series will likely consist of the Galaxy S26, the Galaxy S26 Plus, and the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Additionally, the leaker pointed out that the company seems to be stepping away from creating thin and light phones for the time being, indicating the potential absence of a Galaxy S26 Edge.

    It appears that most of the leaks regarding the Galaxy S26 Pro will apply to the Galaxy S26 instead. However, the leaks concerning the Galaxy S26 Edge now seem uncertain. Notably, this is not the first instance of Samsung possibly abandoning the Edge model. Earlier this month, a Korean news outlet, The Elec, reported that the development of the Galaxy S26 Plus was being revived, suggesting that this model is not going away anytime soon. Furthermore, another well-known leaker mentioned last week that the Galaxy S26 Edge has been scrapped due to disappointing sales of the Galaxy S25 Edge (available on Amazon for 37% off).

    Consumer Preferences

    It appears that consumers are signaling a preference against thin and light phones. Similarly, Apple’s iPhone Air seems to be encountering the same problem, as there are reports suggesting its cancellation is also being considered.

     

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  • Oppo Find X9 and X9 Pro Launch Colors Revealed Before Release

    Oppo Find X9 and X9 Pro Launch Colors Revealed Before Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo Find X9 and Find X9 Pro were unveiled in China with MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500 chip.
    2. Global launch is set for October 28, following OnePlus 13’s launch in China.
    3. Find X9 will be available in Grey and Black; Find X9 Pro will come in Charcoal and White.
    4. Images leaked show color variants for both models, but lack options available in the Chinese market.
    5. The red color option will not be available globally, but some importers offer red versions of the Chinese models.

    The Find X9 and Find X9 Pro was unveiled in China last week, featuring MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500 chip. As we mentioned earlier, Oppo plans to introduce these smartphones globally on October 28, just a day after OnePlus launches the OnePlus 13 in China, priced currently at $849 on Amazon.

    Colour Options and Pricing

    Recently, Sudhanshu Ambhore disclosed the global color variations and launch prices. To summarize, Ambhore stated that the Find X9 will come in Grey and Black, while the Find X9 Pro will be available in Charcoal and White. Following this, Arsène Lupin has shared some images of these expected launch colors ahead of time.

    Images Leak

    Although the leaker suggests that all the images are of the Find X9 Pro, two actually depict the Find X9. In brief, these are the Black and Grey color variants that align with those available in China. The images shown above are quite subtle and lack 50% of the color options that Oppo offers in the Chinese market.

    Final Thoughts

    On the other hand, the Find X9 Pro pictures reveal it in Charcoal and White colors. Sadly, Lupin’s recent leak puts an end to any hopes of seeing the eye-catching red option outside of China. If you prefer the red finish, some importers have red versions of the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro, which run on the Chinese version of ColorOS 16.

    Oppo Find X9 and X9 Pro Launch Colors Revealed Before ReleaseOppo Find X9 and X9 Pro Launch Colors Revealed Before ReleaseOppo Find X9 and X9 Pro Launch Colors Revealed Before ReleaseOppo Find X9 and X9 Pro Launch Colors Revealed Before Release

     

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  • Xiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Camera

    Xiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Camera

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Redmi K90 Pro Max will be fully unveiled in China on October 23, 2025, with a global release expected as the Poco F8 Ultra.
    2. It features a 50 MP main camera with a 1/1.31-inch sensor, promising good dynamic range.
    3. The ultrawide camera is also a 50 MP sensor, maintaining detail and color accuracy.
    4. The telephoto camera offers 5x optical zoom and 10x “lossless zoom,” producing highly detailed images.
    5. While the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max has Leica tuning advantages, the Redmi K90 Pro Max is still expected to capture quality images, though pre-launch samples should be viewed with caution.

    Xiaomi is set to fully reveal the Redmi K90 Pro Max in China on October 23, 2025. While there’s no official date for its global release, it is anticipated that the phone will debut outside of China as the Poco F8 Ultra. The brand has already shared several exciting details about this flagship device through recent promotional teasers, including a 2.1 Bose-tuned speaker system.

    Camera Features Highlighted

    In a recent promotional post, Xiaomi highlighted the camera features of the forthcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 smartphone. The Redmi K90 Pro Max will sport a 1/1.31-inch 50 MP main camera, identical to that of the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max (which can be imported from TradingShenzhen). The samples released indicate that this camera offers a commendable dynamic range.

    Ultrawide and Telephoto Specs

    The ultrawide sensor has also been confirmed as the same 50 MP ultrawide that is seen in the Xiaomi 17. Among the shared images, there seems to be just one photo taken with this sensor, showcasing its ability to preserve details and colors quite effectively.

    On the telephoto front, Xiaomi has disclosed that the Redmi K90 Pro Max will include a telephoto sensor capable of 5x optical zoom and 10x “lossless zoom.” The zoomed images in the samples suggest that this sensor can deliver highly detailed photos, and the portrait images appear to be quite impressive as well.

    Comparison with Xiaomi 17 Pro Max

    Although the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max may have a slight advantage over the Redmi K90 Pro Max due to its Leica tuning, the samples indicate that the new phone has sufficient capability to take quality images. However, it’s wise to remain somewhat skeptical about these pre-launch camera samples, as companies often do not provide completely accurate representations of their products.

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    Xiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 CameraXiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 CameraXiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 CameraXiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 CameraXiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 CameraXiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 CameraXiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 CameraXiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 CameraXiaomi Redmi K90 Pro Max Highlights Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Camera

     

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  • Nubia Z80 Ultra Global Release: 7,200 mAh Battery Unveiled

    Nubia Z80 Ultra Global Release: 7,200 mAh Battery Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nubia Z80 Ultra launched in China with plans for a global release.
    2. Global launch of Nubia Z80 Ultra is set for November 6, shortly after RedMagic 11 Pro’s launch.
    3. Nubia is offering pre-order promotions, including coupon codes and free accessories.
    4. General sales for Nubia Z80 Ultra are scheduled to begin on December 3.
    5. The global version of Nubia Z80 Ultra will have few differences from the Chinese version.

    Earlier today, Nubia unveiled the Nubia Z80 Ultra in China. As is typical for ZTE’s brands, Nubia quickly announced its plans for a global launch of its new flagship device. Interestingly, RedMagic did something similar with its RedMagic 10 Pro (currently priced at $899 on Amazon), but it came with a notable downgrade compared to the version available in China.

    Launch Timing

    The Nubia Z80 Ultra isn’t going to lag too far behind its RedMagic sibling. For context, the RedMagic 11 Pro is set to launch worldwide on November 3. Meanwhile, Nubia has planned the Z80 Ultra’s global debut just three days afterward. The company is also presenting several launch promotions, including a chance to win a Nubia Z80 Ultra, a Retro Kit, or a Game Pad 2.

    Pre-order Offers

    To be specific, anyone who provides their email address will receive a £20/€20/$30 coupon code, plus a charger and a protective case for those who decide to pre-order a Nubia Z80 Ultra. At the moment, Nubia aims to kick off general sales on December 3. According to the infographic below, the global version of the Nubia Z80 Ultra will not show significant differences from its Chinese version in most respects. For complete hardware specifications, please refer to our Nubia Z80 Ultra launch article.

     

    Nubia Z80 Ultra Global Release: 7,200 mAh Battery Unveiled

     

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  • iPhone 18 Series Pricing May Rise Due to Key Component

    iPhone 18 Series Pricing May Rise Due to Key Component

    Key Takeaways

    1. Delayed Release: The basic iPhone 18 model may be delayed until 2027, while the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to launch in late 2026.

    2. Price Increase: The upcoming iPhone 18 series is expected to see a significant price rise due to the new A20 chip, which could cost 50% more than the previous A19 chip.

    3. Higher Production Costs: The transition to the 2nm A20 chip may force Apple to pass increased production costs onto customers, leading to higher retail prices for the iPhone 18 series compared to the iPhone 17 series.

    4. Bill of Materials Impact: The A19 chip used in the iPhone 17 series already saw a price increase of 16% to 24%, and the A20 chip’s higher cost could further affect the overall bill of materials for the iPhone 18.

    5. Industry-Wide Effect: The anticipated price hikes for Apple’s chips may also impact other manufacturers, affecting next-generation devices powered by Snapdragon and MediaTek as well.

    Apple is said to be making some intriguing adjustments to the iPhone launch schedule, starting with the upcoming iPhone 18 series. Rather than releasing all three models at once next year, the basic iPhone 18 might be delayed until 2027. Unfortunately, the pricing is also expected to rise significantly compared to the iPhone 17 series, largely due to the new A20 SoC.

    Price Increase Expected

    A report from China Times (translated from Chinese) indicates that the 2nm A20 chip, which will drive the iPhone 18 series, will come at a higher cost than the A19 chip used in the iPhone 17 series. TSMC has reportedly informed Apple and other clients that the pricing for 2nm chips could be 50% more, or even higher, than previous versions. The A19 processors, which are part of the iPhone 17, were made using TSMC’s 3nm N3P technology. With the transition to 2nm, significant performance improvements could lead to even steeper price hikes.

    Bill of Materials Overview

    DigiTimes mentioned last year that the bill of materials (BOM) for the iPhone 16 (256 GB) stood at $416, with the A18 chip costing around $45. This model was introduced at a retail price of $799, which included Apple’s profit margins. The A19 chip is slightly pricier as it utilizes the advanced N3P process (still at 3nm), and the China Times report indicates that this process resulted in a price increase of about 16% to 24%. However, the iPhone 17 (256 GB) kept the $799 price point, suggesting that Apple absorbed the minor impact on profit margins.

    Now, if the A20 chip’s price rises by, say, 50%, as suggested by the report, Apple might have to pass this additional cost onto customers to maintain its profit margin, or find savings in other areas. This could mean that the cost for the iPhone 18 series will be higher than that of the iPhone 17 series. It’s important to remember that this is still speculation, and there’s a chance Apple could find a way to offset the increased production costs.

    Staggered Launch Timeline

    Regarding the launch schedule, it has been recently reported that Apple intends to stagger the release of the iPhone 18 series. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models are expected to hit the market in the latter half of 2026, while the base iPhone 18 is projected to debut in the first half of 2027, along with the iPhone 18e.

    As noted earlier, TSMC has reportedly warned all its clients to anticipate higher prices for chips produced using the 2nm process, so the price hikes may not just affect Apple but could also extend to next-generation devices powered by Snapdragon and MediaTek.

     

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