iPhone 17 Sees Price Increase and iPhone 16 Gets a Price Cut: All New iPhone Prices in India

Apple’s much-anticipated “Awe Dropping” event on September 9, 2025, unveiled the iPhone 17 series, including the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, alongside significant price adjustments in India. The new flagship lineup comes with a price hike due to enhanced features, increased base storage, and global supply chain dynamics. Meanwhile, Apple has slashed prices on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, making them more accessible, while discontinuing the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max from its official stores. This blog breaks down the new iPhone prices in India, the reasons behind the changes, and what these shifts mean for consumers. All prices are sourced from reliable reports and reflect the latest updates as of September 10, 2025.

iPhone 17 Series: New Features, Higher Prices

The iPhone 17 series introduces four models, each packed with cutting-edge technology. The lineup features 120Hz ProMotion LTPO AMOLED displays across all models, a first for non-Pro variants, along with next-gen A19 and A19 Pro chipsets, upgraded cameras, and iOS 26 with enhanced Apple Intelligence features. The iPhone 17 Air, replacing the Plus model, boasts a slim 5.5mm design, making it the lightest iPhone ever. However, these advancements come at a cost, with price increases driven by higher production expenses, US tariffs on imports from India and China, and increased base storage for Pro models.

Here are the confirmed iPhone 17 series prices in India for the base storage variants:

• iPhone 17 (128GB): ₹82,900
• iPhone 17 Air (256GB): ₹1,19,900
• iPhone 17 Pro (256GB): ₹1,34,900
• iPhone 17 Pro Max (256GB): ₹1,59,900
• iPhone 17 Pro Max (2TB): ₹2,29,900 (first iPhone to cross ₹2 lakh)

The iPhone 17 maintains a starting price close to its predecessor’s ₹79,900, but the Pro models see a significant hike, with the iPhone 17 Pro up by ₹15,000 from the iPhone 16 Pro’s ₹1,19,900, and the Pro Max up by ₹15,000–₹20,000 from the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s ₹1,44,900. The iPhone 17 Air’s ₹1,19,900 price positions it as a premium mid-tier option, reflecting its sleek design and advanced features like a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display and triple-camera system. The 2TB iPhone 17 Pro Max, at ₹2,29,900, marks a new high for Apple’s pricing in India, driven by its massive storage and top-tier specs like 8K video recording and a 6x optical zoom.

Why the Price Increase?

Several factors contribute to the iPhone 17 series’ higher prices:

1. Upgraded Features: All models feature 120Hz displays, with Pro models sporting 12GB RAM (up from 8GB) and the A19 Pro chipset. The iPhone 17 Air’s ultra-thin design and the Pro Max’s advanced camera system justify higher costs.
2. Increased Base Storage: The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max start at 256GB, compared to 128GB for their predecessors, adding value but also cost.
3. Global Supply Chain and Tariffs: US tariffs of 20% on iPhones assembled in China and potential levies on Indian-made units have pushed prices up. India’s 5% rupee depreciation against the dollar in 2025 further impacts pricing.
4. Local Production Dynamics: While Apple’s “Made in India” initiative mitigates some costs, global supply chain issues and higher component prices contribute to the hike.

Analyst Jeff Pu and JPMorgan reports suggest that Apple aims to balance these costs with value-added features like increased storage and AI enhancements, but the price hikes may still challenge budget-conscious buyers.

iPhone 16 Price Cuts: A Budget-Friendly Option

Following the iPhone 17 launch, Apple has reduced prices on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, aligning with its strategy to make older models more affordable during festive seasons like Diwali. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max have been discontinued from Apple’s official website and stores, though limited stock remains at third-party retailers like Amazon and Flipkart at discounted rates.

Here are the updated iPhone 16 series prices in India:

• iPhone 16e (128GB): ₹59,900
• iPhone 16e (256GB): ₹69,900
• iPhone 16e (512GB): ₹89,900
• iPhone 16 (128GB): ₹69,900 (down from ₹79,900)
• iPhone 16 Plus (128GB): ₹79,900 (down from ₹89,900)
• iPhone 16 Pro (256GB, third-party retailers): ₹1,17,900
• iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB, third-party retailers): ₹1,32,900

The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, now powered by the A18 Bionic chip and supporting iOS 26, have received a ₹10,000 price cut, making them attractive for buyers seeking value. E-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart are offering additional discounts, with the iPhone 16 (128GB) available for as low as ₹69,999 and potential exchange offers bringing effective prices under ₹40,000 during festive sales.

What This Means for Indian Consumers

The iPhone 17’s price increase reflects Apple’s premium positioning, targeting buyers who value cutting-edge technology. The iPhone 17 Air, with its slim design and ProMotion display, is likely to appeal to style-conscious users, while the Pro models cater to professionals needing advanced cameras and performance. However, the higher prices, especially the ₹2.29 lakh Pro Max, may deter some buyers, particularly amid India’s economic challenges.

The iPhone 16 price cuts, on the other hand, offer a silver lining. With festive season sales approaching, platforms like Amazon and Flipkart are expected to provide further discounts, making the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus compelling options for budget-conscious Apple fans. The iPhone 16e, priced at ₹59,900, remains the most affordable entry into Apple’s ecosystem, ideal for first-time iPhone buyers or those upgrading from older models like the iPhone 15, now available at ₹64,900 on Flipkart.

Consumer Options and Strategies

For Indian consumers, the 2025 iPhone lineup presents a range of choices:

• Buy iPhone 17 Series: If you want the latest tech, pre-order the iPhone 17 models starting September 12, with sales from September 19. The iPhone 17 Air and Pro models offer significant upgrades, but be prepared for the higher price tag.
• Opt for iPhone 16 Discounts: The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus are now more affordable, with additional savings during Diwali sales. Check e-commerce platforms for deals, including No Cost EMI and exchange offers.
• Grab iPhone 16 Pro While Available: Limited stock of the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max at third-party retailers offers a premium experience at a lower price, ideal for those seeking value.
• Consider Older Models: The iPhone 15, now at ₹64,900, remains a solid choice with its A16 Bionic chip and strong performance.

Conclusion

Apple’s iPhone 17 series brings groundbreaking features but at a higher cost, with prices starting at ₹82,900 and reaching ₹2,29,900 for the top-tier Pro Max. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus have become more accessible with ₹10,000 price cuts, and the iPhone 16e offers an entry-level option at ₹59,900. As festive sales approach, Indian consumers have a unique opportunity to balance budget and innovation. Whether you’re eyeing the sleek iPhone 17 Air or the discounted iPhone 16, now’s the time to make an informed choice. At Parnharit Foundation (PARNHARIT.COM), our free consumer education courses can guide you through smart purchasing decisions—register today at www.parnharit.com to empower your future!