Carriers Cushion Blow of Higher iPhone Prices with Richer Promotions

US wireless carriers have increased iPhone promotions to offset price increases this year. According to Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan, maximum trade-in credits for the iPhone 18 Pro Max now reach $1,200, up from $1,100 last year and $1,000 the year before.

The higher promotions largely offset Apple's higher pricing this year, supporting demand for the new lineup. Carrier financing programs also improve affordability by bundling device payments with wireless service over 36 months.

While lead times suggest the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are shipping faster than last year, Mohan notes that richer subsidies could continue to support demand. The promotions target customers with relatively recent iPhones, focusing on accelerating upgrades among those with newer devices.