- Apple is speculated to use less complex manufacturing process to build iPhone 18 due to rising component costs.
- It means the phone might look more on the iPhone 18e and not the iPhone 18 Pro series launching later this year.
- iPhone 18 could even use the same display tech as iPhone 17 and the same chipset, as it prepares to launch early next year.
The increasing instability in the global markets might have gripped Apple as well. Recent iPhone 18 leaks suggest the standard Apple iPhone 18 could share some similarities with the iPhone 18e as an attempt to stabilize the rising cost of RAM memory and other components.
What iPhone 18 leaks reveal about Apple’s cost strategy
According to the tipster Fixed-focus Digital Cameras via Weibo, the upcoming standard iPhone 18 could use similar and less complex manufacturing processes as the iPhone 18e. This means the base iPhone 18 may resemble the iPhone 18e more closely than the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models.
On the other hand, reports from PhoneArena indicate that the base iPhone might not receive any display upgrades. Instead, it could reuse the same display found on the iPhone 17. While Apple is reportedly working on displays with a smaller Dynamic Island, the iPhone 18 may still feature a similar-sized cutout due to limitations in the rumored display technology.
It’s not just the display that could see compromises. Apple may opt for a less powerful or even binned processor for the iPhone 18e. As a result, the standard iPhone 18 could follow a similar approach, potentially skipping the Apple A20 Bionic chipset expected in the Pro models. The “less complex manufacturing process” may also extend to materials, with the possibility of a less premium chassis.
What does that mean for buyers? Simply put, the iPhone 18 might not feel as premium as its predecessor. However, many of these cost-cutting measures may not be immediately noticeable in everyday use. Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly willing to absorb rising DRAM costs for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max to avoid sharp price increases and keep those models attractive.
Overall, the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e are expected to arrive early next year as part of Apple’s broader split strategy.
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