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Rumoured iPhone 18 may pair a larger battery with a higher price
A new rumour says Apple may charge more for the base iPhone 18, while adding a larger battery and a new A20 chip. If accurate, the changes would raise the cost of Apple’s entry-level model amid recent price increases across the smartphone market.
The claim comes from Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station, who says the phone could arrive early next year alongside a second-generation iPhone Air and the iPhone 18e. The A20 is reportedly built on a 2-nanometre process, but the base model would not get the smaller Dynamic Island expected on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. No new price was given; Apple raised older iPhone prices by $100 in September, while Google and Samsung have also increased prices amid component shortages.
In short
- The base iPhone 18 may cost more.
- Rumours point to a larger battery and A20 chip.
- Its price and launch details remain unconfirmed.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A higher price could be reasonable if the iPhone 18 delivers a meaningfully larger battery and a faster, more efficient A20 chip, especially as component costs are rising across the industry. Supporters might argue that pricing the entry model higher helps Apple sustain product quality and investment in new technology.
The case against
Raising the price of the entry-level iPhone could make Apple’s products less accessible, particularly if the changes are modest or the rumour proves incomplete. Consumers might reasonably expect core improvements such as better battery life to come without a further increase, and could see the choice to reserve a smaller Dynamic Island for pricier models as adding to the cost burden.
Explained simply
Apple’s iPhone range includes a base model, which is generally positioned as a more affordable option than its Pro phones. The company updates the range regularly, with changes to features and internal components such as the processor and battery.
Chip size and battery capacity can affect a phone’s speed, power use and cost to make. Prices can also reflect wider pressures, including the cost and availability of components, which have affected smartphone makers beyond Apple.
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Originally published by The Verge as “iPhone 18 rumors suggest a bigger battery, higher price next year”.