iPhone 17 Series Prices Leak: Pro Max Around ₹1.65L in India

Awe Dropping Prices: iPhone 17 Series Rumored to See Price Hikes, Pro Max Could Touch ₹1.65 Lakh in India

New Delhi, August 31, 2025 - With Apple’s highly anticipated "Awe Dropping" event just a little over a week away, the tech world is abuzz with leaks and rumors about the upcoming iPhone 17 series. While new features and design changes are exciting, the latest reports are focusing on a less welcome aspect: a potential price hike across the lineup. According to multiple sources, the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max models are expected to get a price increase, with the flagship iPhone 17 Pro Max possibly costing as much as ₹1.65 lakh in India.

This price escalation is attributed to rising production costs, ongoing global economic pressures, and Apple's continued push to pack its Pro models with more advanced and exclusive features. The news has sent a ripple of concern among Apple enthusiasts, especially in a market like India, where price sensitivity plays a significant role in consumer decisions.

The Rumored Pricing Structure

While Apple maintains a tight lid on its pricing strategy until the official launch, reliable leaks from supply chain analysts and tech insiders have painted a clear picture of what to expect.

• iPhone 17 (Standard Model): The base model is expected to maintain its price point, likely starting at $799 in the U.S. and around ₹79,900 to ₹89,000 in India. This move is seen as a strategic decision to keep the entry-level iPhone accessible to a wider audience, especially with the introduction of a new "Air" model.
• iPhone 17 Pro: The iPhone 17 Pro is rumored to see a $50 price hike, starting at around $1,049 in the U.S. The Indian pricing for the Pro model could start from ₹1,34,990 to ₹1,45,000 for the base storage variant. This increase is likely tied to the significant upgrades expected in the Pro model, including a new A19 Pro chip, an upgraded camera system, and more.
• iPhone 17 Pro Max: The flagship iPhone 17 Pro Max is poised to be the most expensive iPhone to date. Leaks suggest a starting price of $1,249 in the U.S., a noticeable increase from previous models. In India, where import duties and taxes are a factor, the price for the base model could be a staggering ₹1.65 lakh, or even higher, depending on the final storage options and configurations.

Behind the Price Hikes: Features and Economics

The rumored price increase isn't just a random move by Apple; it is rooted in a combination of new features and market realities.

1. A19 Pro Chip and Advanced AI: The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are expected to be powered by the new A19 Pro chip, built on TSMC's latest 3nm process. This chip promises significant improvements in speed and efficiency, and it is crucial for running the new "Apple Intelligence" AI features expected to debut with iOS 26. The development and integration of this cutting-edge technology come at a cost, which is likely being passed on to the consumer.

2. Camera Upgrades: The Pro models are rumored to get a major camera overhaul. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is tipped to be the first iPhone with a triple 48-megapixel rear camera setup, with a new periscope telephoto lens that offers up to 8x zoom. The front-facing camera is also rumored to be upgraded from 12 megapixels to a higher-resolution 24-megapixel sensor. These high-end camera components are expensive and are a significant reason for the price increase.

3. Global Tariffs and Economic Factors: A key reason for the price hikes, especially in international markets, is the ongoing global trade tensions and the implementation of new tariffs. The increasing cost of components and manufacturing, along with currency fluctuations, puts pressure on Apple to adjust its pricing to maintain profitability. The Indian market, in particular, is affected by import duties, which make the premium models more expensive than in the U.S.

The New Player: iPhone 17 Air

Adding a new layer of complexity to the pricing strategy is the rumored introduction of a new, slim model, the iPhone 17 Air. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it is expected to replace the "Plus" model in the lineup. The iPhone 17 Air is tipped to be priced above the standard iPhone 17 but below the Pro models, likely starting at around $899 in the U.S. and ₹99,990 in India. This new model is designed to offer a balance of premium features and a more accessible price point, catering to a new segment of the market.

Looking Ahead: The Launch Event

While the leaks provide a comprehensive overview, the official prices will only be confirmed at Apple’s "Awe Dropping" event on September 9. The event, which will be live-streamed from the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park, is the most anticipated tech event of the year. For Indian fans, the event will begin at 10:30 PM IST.

The rumored price hike, particularly for the Pro models, is a significant development that could impact sales and consumer sentiment. However, given Apple’s track record, it is clear that they are betting on the new features and upgrades to justify the higher cost. The iPhone 17 series is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and expensive lineups in Apple's history, and all eyes are now on the official launch to see if the company's "Awe Dropping" event lives up to its name