Apple announced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max on September 9, 2026, at the same event where it revealed its first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo. The two Pro models went on sale on September 18. The short version: the iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199 and the iPhone 18 Pro Max at $1,299, both with 256GB of storage, and the headline upgrades are a variable-aperture main camera, the A20 Pro chip and much longer battery life on the Max.

How much does the iPhone 18 Pro cost?

According to Apple's US pricing, reported by MacRumors on launch day, the iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199 and the iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299. Both prices are for the 256GB base configuration, which is $100 more than the equivalent iPhone 17 Pro models. Higher storage tiers cost more, and prices outside the US vary with local taxes and exchange rates, so check your local Apple Store before budgeting for an upgrade.

When was the iPhone 18 Pro released?

Pre-orders opened on Saturday, September 12, 2026, and the phones arrived in Apple Stores on Friday, September 18. Apple says the launch covered more than 65 countries and regions in the first wave.

What is new on the iPhone 18 Pro?

  • A20 Pro chip: Apple's newest processor, paired with a next-generation vapor chamber for cooling. Apple says the combination delivers the highest sustained performance ever on an iPhone.
  • 48MP Fusion Main camera with variable aperture: reviewers report it switches between four physical apertures, from f/1.48 for low light to f/4.0 for deeper focus.
  • A smaller Dynamic Island: reviewers measured it at roughly 25 percent smaller, with room for more live activities at once.
  • Apple's C2 cellular modem: Apple says it uploads faster than the previous C1X while using about 15 percent less energy.
  • iOS 27 with Apple Intelligence and the new AI-powered Siri.

iPhone 18 Pro vs iPhone 18 Pro Max: what is the difference?

The two phones share the same chip and camera system. The differences are screen size and battery. The iPhone 18 Pro has a 6.3-inch display and the Pro Max a 6.9-inch display. Apple says the Pro Max delivers the largest increase in battery life ever on an iPhone, thanks to a larger battery and more efficient silicon. Early reviewers reported getting close to two full days from the Pro Max on a single charge. If battery life matters more to you than pocketability, the Max is the one to get.

What colors does the iPhone 18 Pro come in?

Carrier listings from AT&T and T-Mobile show four finishes: Black, Silver, and two new colors, Burgundy and Glacier.

Where are the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e?

Apple did not announce a standard iPhone 18 or a new budget "e" model in September. Multiple reports say Apple has split its release calendar, with the more affordable iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e expected in spring 2027. If you want the cheapest new iPhone, it may be worth waiting.

Is the iPhone 18 Pro worth upgrading to?

If you use an iPhone 15 Pro or older, the jump in battery life, camera flexibility and performance is substantial. If you already own an iPhone 17 Pro, reviewers broadly describe the 18 Pro as a refinement rather than a reinvention: the variable aperture is the main new creative tool, and the Pro Max's battery is the most practical upgrade. For people planning a move abroad, remember that iPhones bought in one country are usually unlocked when purchased outright from Apple, but eSIM and carrier support differ by market, so check compatibility with local networks before you travel.