Reports indicate that Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro will likely begin with 256GB of internal storage, a step up from the 128GB base tier seen in recent Pro models. The claim comes from MacRumors, which cited unnamed sources familiar with Apple’s plans.
The same outlet also reported that Apple is trimming its 2026 hardware shipment forecasts due to a global memory shortage. That constraint could affect how many iPhone 18 Pro units are available at launch, though Apple has not publicly commented on either the storage change or the production outlook.
Additional reporting from Forbes suggests the iPhone 18 Pro is still on track for a September release, driven by strong consumer demand. Tom’s Guide has separately indicated that pre-orders for both the iPhone 18 Pro and a new iPhone Ultra model may open around the same time, though no exact date has been confirmed.
On the cost side, TrendForce projects that the bill of materials for the iPhone 18 Pro could jump by nearly 40 percent compared to its predecessor. The research firm says Apple may absorb some of that increase rather than pass it fully to customers, in an effort to keep shipment volumes steady.
Taken together, the reports paint a picture of a device with more baseline storage, a tight supply environment, and higher component costs. The storage upgrade would be a notable shift for buyers who have grown used to 128GB as the entry point for Pro models.
What to watch next: whether Apple confirms the 256GB base configuration and how the memory shortage affects launch-day availability in September.
