Apple's India feeder lineup at risk as Cook flags AI-driven memory cost price hikes

Tim Cook confirmed Apple will raise device prices as AI demand drives memory costs up 20-25% globally. Analysts say India's affordability-focused feeder SKUs—iPhone E, MacBook Neo, iPad Air—are most exposed, with Mac configs already delisted. September iPhones could land $100-150 higher, threatening Apple's 28% wholesale value share.

— Source publishedThu, 18 Jun, 2026, 17:04 IST·First seen Thu, 18 Jun, 2026, 17:52 IST·Source Business Standard · Companies

What happened

Tim Cook confirms Apple will raise device prices due to AI-driven memory cost surge. Analysts say India's feeder lineup (iPhone E, MacBook Neo, iPad Air) most

Key facts

  • 247 million iPhones/year
  • 20-25% global smartphone memory demand
  • $100-$150 upside per SKU
  • 28% wholesale value share India CY2025
  • 9% shipment share India
  • 13% India smartphone market decline forecast

Why this matters

Memory cost shock creates M&A openings in Indian component suppliers and contract manufacturers as Apple reassesses feeder lineup viability and supply chain localization.