Apple could face a supply crunch for its upcoming high-end iPhones, with limited memory supplies potentially causing stock shortages and longer delivery times after launch.
The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and the expected foldable iPhone Ultra are all at risk of tight supplies, according to semiconductor analyst Tim Culpan. He says Apple is struggling to secure enough DRAM, a type of memory used by the new devices.
The shortage is already affecting production at chipmaker TSMC, which reportedly has around $1 billion worth of processors waiting for memory chips before they can be completed.
The problem is linked to the way Apple’s new A20 Pro chips are being made. The processors are based on TSMC’s 2nm technology and use advanced packaging that combines the processor and DRAM at the wafer stage.
That means the memory must be available when the chips are assembled. Apple cannot simply finish the processors first and add the DRAM later when more memory becomes available.
This could slow down the production of the iPhone 18 Pro models and the foldable iPhone Ultra. While Apple and its manufacturing partners are expected to have enough devices for the initial launch, retail stock could run out quickly, pushing delivery dates further into the future.
The wider memory shortage has been building for months. Memory makers are giving priority to chips used in artificial intelligence data centres because they offer higher returns. This has reduced the supply available for consumer electronics and has already contributed to longer waiting times for some Apple computers.
The foldable iPhone Ultra could face an even bigger supply problem because of its more complex design. Reports differ on its launch timing, with some suggesting Apple could unveil it in September but delay sales until October or November.
The device is also expected to be Apple’s most expensive iPhone yet, with a possible price of up to $2,500. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max could also become more expensive, with analysts estimating increases of as much as $300 due partly to higher memory costs.
Apple may face even stronger demand this year because the cheaper standard iPhone 18 is reportedly being pushed to early 2027.
Last year’s iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max sold out during the preorder period, with delivery times extending into October. If the same happens this year, buyers hoping to receive an iPhone 18 model on launch day may need to place their orders as soon as preorders open.
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