Resellers Lose Grip on iPhone 18 Pro Shortages as Apple Accelerates Deliveries
Novinky reported that resellers in the Czech Republic capitalized on the initial scarcity of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max shortly after their release, with some offering phones at thousands of Czech koruna above retail price or even selling reservation rights. However, the situation has shifted rapidly, with availability improving as Apple now promises to fulfill orders within one to two weeks, according to the company’s official Czech website.
Price Hikes Outpace Previous Model, Despite Improved Supply
The base iPhone 18 Pro with 256GB storage now costs 34,990 Kč, a 2,000 Kč increase from the iPhone 17 Pro. The 512GB model rose to 40,990 Kč, while the 1TB variant saw a 8,000 Kč jump, priced at 52,990 Kč. The iPhone 18 Pro Max also faced significant price increases, with the 256GB version costing 37,990 Kč—3,000 Kč more than the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Reseller Activity Declines as Apple Cuts Delivery Times
Last year, iPhone 17 Pro models remained in short supply for over two months post-launch, with some customers waiting over a month for delivery. This year, Apple has reportedly delivered the latest models faster. While some local retailers still list the devices as sold out, Apple’s official e-shop confirms it can process orders within weeks.
Uncertainty Over Supply Chain Efficiency vs. Demand
The rapid improvement in availability suggests that either Apple’s enhanced inventory management or reduced consumer demand is responsible. Apple has not released official sales figures for the iPhone 18 series. Some resellers claim to have access to multiple pre-orders, but consumers are advised to avoid paying premiums by waiting just a week, as Apple reportedly fulfills orders faster than last year.
High-End Storage Options Expand, Further Driving Costs
The iPhone 18 Pro now includes a 2TB storage variant at 70,990 Kč, a feature absent in the iPhone 17 Pro. This expansion, alongside increased pricing for existing storage tiers, has made the latest iPhones more expensive for users seeking higher capacity. The 1TB iPhone 18 Pro Max, for instance, now costs 55,990 Kč, up 9,000 Kč from the previous generation.
Resellers Adjust Strategies as Consumer Patience Pays Off
Despite initial hype, resellers have seen their influence wane as Apple’s improved delivery timelines reduce the need for premium purchases. Social media reports suggest that Apple is receiving iPhones within a week of ordering, with Apple building in a buffer period.
What Remains Unclear
The exact reason for Apple’s improved supply chain performance remains unconfirmed. While some attribute it to better inventory planning, others speculate that weaker demand for the latest models may be a factor. Without official sales data, the debate over the cause of the shortage’s resolution will persist.
iPhone 18 Pro Supply Improves as Prices Rise
- iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max shortages eased rapidly, with Apple promising one- to two-week delivery times.
- Prices for the latest models rose significantly compared to the previous lineup, with 1TB variants up by 8,000–9,000 Kč.
- Resellers previously exploited scarcity, but improved supply has reduced the need for premium purchases.
- Apple’s lack of official sales data leaves uncertainty over whether enhanced production or lower demand explains the improved availability.
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