Apple is heading into 2026 under growing pressure from rising memory and chip costs. According to recent supply-chain analysis, prices for key components have increased sharply since late 2025. These higher costs affect devices across Apple’s lineup, especially Macs and iPhones.
Memory prices matter more for Apple than many rivals. Because Apple fixes RAM and storage at purchase, customers feel price changes during configuration. As a result, even if base prices stay the same, upgrades may become more expensive.
Macs Are Especially Exposed
Mac computers face the greatest risk from memory inflation. Buyers must choose storage and memory upfront, leaving no room for later upgrades. Analysts note that this structure makes Macs more sensitive to cost swings.
However, Apple entered 2026 with an advantage. The company secured NAND inventory earlier under favorable terms. Those contracts helped delay immediate price pressure. Still, those agreements will soon expire, narrowing Apple’s flexibility.
If costs continue rising, Apple may adjust upgrade pricing instead of headline prices. That strategy protects entry prices while shifting pressure to higher-end buyers.
iPhones Could Feel Pressure Too
Rising costs also threaten iPhone storage tiers. Suppliers may push prices closer to market levels during negotiations. If talks favor suppliers, higher costs could land directly on larger storage options.
Even so, Apple’s scale gives it leverage. Its long-standing relationship with manufacturing partners helps soften the impact compared to smaller competitors.
Wafer Prices Rise, But Apple Has Leverage
Foundry wafer costs continue to increase, especially at advanced manufacturing nodes. However, Apple reportedly sees smaller increases than most companies. Analysts credit Apple’s size and strategic importance to its chip partners.
Still, next-generation chips cost more to produce. Although Apple offsets some increases through efficient chip design, pressure remains across nearly every product line.
How Long Can Prices Hold?
Industry analysts suggest Apple has three options: raise prices, reduce specifications, or accept lower margins. For now, Apple appears focused on protecting retail prices while adjusting configuration costs.
The key question remains how long Apple can hold that balance through 2026. If inflation persists, buyers may soon notice higher prices where it matters most—memory and storage upgrades.
