iPhone 20 May Be Too Expensive For The Masses

Apple’s iPhone 20, expected to be released in 2027, may be the company’s most expensive smartphone to date, putting it out of reach for millions.

This is because Apple is preparing a major design shift with the iPhone 20, introducing a display approach the company has not used before. The device is expected to feature a quad-curved screen paired with Apple’s Liquid Glass user interface, creating a seamless visual effect that gives the impression of a bezel-less design.

However, producing this type of display is complex, and only one manufacturer is said to be handling its development.

This exclusive OLED supply arrangement could significantly increase costs for Apple, as the company would need to pay a premium to its supplier. Adding to the challenge, Apple CEO Tim Cook has warned that the company’s DRAM reserves are running low. As a result, the iPhone 20 could become Apple’s most expensive smartphone release to date.

A similar situation occurred in 2017 with the iPhone X. Despite no DRAM shortage at the time, it became Apple’s most expensive device, setting a new benchmark for $1,000 smartphones. The high price was largely due to Samsung being the sole OLED supplier, with Apple reportedly paying between $110 and $120 per display unit, which pushed the retail price higher.

According to a report by The Korea Herald, a similar scenario could unfold with the iPhone 20. Samsung is once again expected to be Apple’s only supplier for the quad-curved OLED panels. While LG remains an important part of Apple’s supply chain, Samsung is considered better equipped to meet Apple’s large-scale production needs and strict quality standards.

Relying on a single supplier for these advanced displays means Apple may have to absorb higher costs for each unit. In addition, memory costs are also rising, with each 8GB LPDDR5X RAM module estimated at $180, accounting for around 45% of the total bill of materials (BOM). This combination puts pressure on Apple to manage pricing while maintaining profitability.

Despite these challenges, Apple could position the iPhone 20 as a next-generation flagship, using its redesigned look as a key selling point to justify a higher price. The company’s strong brand appeal may still attract buyers, but the device is unlikely to come at a low cost.