Apple’s latest flagship smartphones, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, officially hit store shelves this week in the United States and 64 other countries as part of the first wave of releases. For those eagerly awaiting the iPhone Duo, a bit more patience is required, as it won’t be available for another month or so. The new Pro models come with a price tag that’s $100 higher than last year’s iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max. As usual, Apple has discontinued the previous Pro models upon the launch of the new ones, leaving only non-Pro models available on Apple.com for more than a year. However, third-party retailers are still offering the older Pros, and we’ve got the details below.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Now Available
The wait is over for Apple enthusiasts in the US and dozens of other countries: the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are now available for purchase. These devices represent the pinnacle of Apple’s smartphone technology, boasting improved cameras, faster processors, and enhanced battery life. However, this year’s models come with a higher price point. The iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,099, while the Pro Max starts at $1,199 – a $100 increase over their predecessors. This price hike is attributed to rising component costs and advanced features. If you’re looking to upgrade, you’ll need to budget accordingly.
Pricing and Availability
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are available in four storage capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. The 128GB model is priced at $1,099 for the Pro and $1,199 for the Pro Max. The 256GB variant costs $1,199 and $1,299 respectively, while the 512GB version is $1,399 and $1,499. The top-tier 1TB model will set you back $1,599 for the Pro and $1,699 for the Pro Max. These prices are for unlocked devices directly from Apple. Carrier deals may offer discounts with trade-ins or installment plans, so it’s worth checking with your provider.
Where to Buy
You can purchase the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max from Apple’s online store, Apple retail locations, and major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Additionally, authorized resellers such as Best Buy and Amazon have them in stock. If you’re in one of the 64 first-wave countries, you can likely find them at local retailers. For those in other regions, availability will expand in the coming weeks.
Refurbished iPhone 17 Pros: A Costly Alternative
With the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple has discontinued the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max. This means you can no longer buy them new from Apple. However, third-party retailers and refurbished markets are still selling them. But here’s the catch: refurbished iPhone 17 Pros are surprisingly expensive, often costing nearly as much as the new iPhone 18 Pro. For example, a refurbished iPhone 17 Pro with 256GB storage is currently priced around $999, while the new iPhone 18 Pro with the same storage starts at $1,199. That’s only a $200 difference for a generation-old device. In some cases, the price gap is even smaller, making the new model a more sensible choice.
Why Are Refurbished iPhone 17 Pros So Pricey?
Several factors contribute to the high prices of refurbished iPhone 17 Pros. First, the iPhone 17 Pro was a significant upgrade over previous generations, with a new design, improved cameras, and the A17 Pro chip. Demand for these features remains strong. Second, supply is limited since Apple stopped production. Third, refurbished units often come with warranties and are in like-new condition, which adds value. However, the high prices make it hard to justify buying a refurbished iPhone 17 Pro when the iPhone 18 Pro offers better performance and newer technology for a relatively small premium.
Where to Find Refurbished iPhone 17 Pros
If you’re still interested in a refurbished iPhone 17 Pro, you can find them at retailers like Back Market, Swappa, and Gazelle. Apple also sells refurbished models directly, but they sell out quickly. Prices vary by storage and condition, so shop around. Just be aware that you might be better off spending a bit more for the latest model.
Galaxy Z8 Foldables See Discounts
Samsung’s Galaxy Z8 series of foldable phones is currently on sale. The Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8 have received price cuts at various retailers, making them more affordable for those intrigued by foldable technology. The Galaxy Z Fold8, Samsung’s premium foldable, is now available for $1,499, down from its original $1,799. The Galaxy Z Flip8, a more compact and stylish option, is priced at $899, reduced from $999. These discounts are likely a response to increased competition in the foldable market and the launch of new models from other brands.
Galaxy Z Fold8: A Productivity Powerhouse
The Galaxy Z Fold8 features a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display that folds out into a tablet-like experience. It’s powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, coupled with 12GB of RAM and up to 1TB of storage. The camera system includes a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 10MP telephoto lens. With a 4,400mAh battery and support for 45W fast charging, it’s a capable device for multitasking and media consumption. At its discounted price, it’s a compelling option for power users.
Galaxy Z Flip8: Style and Portability
The Galaxy Z Flip8 is a compact foldable that flips vertically. It has a 6.7-inch main display and a 3.4-inch cover screen. It runs on the same Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, with 8GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage. The dual-camera setup includes a 12MP wide and 12MP ultra-wide lens. The 3,700mAh battery supports 25W charging. Its discounted price makes it an attractive choice for those who want a stylish and pocketable phone.
Where to Find Galaxy Z8 Deals
The discounts on the Galaxy Z8 series are available at major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Samsung’s own online store. Carriers such as Verizon and AT&T are also offering promotions, including trade-in deals that can further reduce the price. If you’re in the market for a foldable, now is a good time to buy.
Other Notable Deals This Week
Beyond the headline acts, there are several other deals worth checking out. Google’s Pixel 8 Pro is seeing a price drop to $799, down from $999. The OnePlus 11 is available for $599, a $100 discount. Additionally, the iPad Air (5th generation) is on sale for $499, down from $599. These deals cater to a range of budgets and preferences, so there’s something for everyone.
Pixel 8 Pro: A Camera Champion
The Pixel 8 Pro is Google’s flagship smartphone, known for its exceptional camera system. It features a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide, and a 48MP telephoto lens, along with Google’s AI-powered photo editing tools. It runs on the Tensor G3 chip and has a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. At $799, it’s a fantastic deal for photography enthusiasts.
OnePlus 11: Flagship Killer
The OnePlus 11 offers high-end specs at a mid-range price. It has a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. The camera system includes a 50MP main, 48MP ultra-wide, and 32MP telephoto lens. With a 5,000mAh battery and 100W fast charging, it’s a powerhouse. At $599, it’s a steal.
iPad Air (5th Gen): Versatile and Affordable
The iPad Air (5th generation) is a great option for students and professionals alike. It features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, the M1 chip, and support for the Apple Pencil 2 and Magic Keyboard. At $499, it’s an excellent value for those seeking a portable tablet for work or play.
How to Make the Most of These Deals
When shopping for deals, it’s important to compare prices across retailers and consider trade-in offers. Many carriers and manufacturers provide additional discounts if you trade in your old device. Also, keep an eye out for bundle deals that include accessories or services. Finally, if you’re buying a refurbished device, ensure it comes with a warranty and a good return policy.
Trade-In Programs
Apple, Samsung, and Google all offer trade-in programs that can significantly reduce the cost of a new phone. For example, trading in an iPhone 14 Pro could get you up to $600 off an iPhone 18 Pro. Similarly, Samsung offers up to $500 off a Galaxy Z Fold8 when you trade in a qualifying device. Check the respective websites for details.
Carrier Promotions
Carriers often have exclusive promotions. For instance, AT&T might offer a free iPhone 18 Pro with a new line and an eligible trade-in. Verizon could give you a $800 discount on a Galaxy Z Flip8 with a trade-in. These offers change frequently, so it’s wise to check with your carrier before making a purchase.
Refurbished vs. New
Deciding between a refurbished and a new device depends on your budget and priorities. Refurbished devices are cheaper but may have limited warranty and older technology. New devices come with the latest features and full warranty but at a higher price. With the iPhone 17 Pro refurbished prices being so high, it might be worth spending a little more for the iPhone 18 Pro.
Final Thoughts
This week’s deals offer a mix of new launches and discounts on existing products. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are now available, but at a higher price. Refurbished iPhone 17 Pros are surprisingly expensive, making them less appealing. Galaxy Z8 foldables are discounted, providing a good opportunity to enter the foldable market. Other deals on Pixel 8 Pro, OnePlus 11, and iPad Air add value. As always, do your research and compare prices to get the best deal. Happy shopping!
