How much did an iPhone cost in 2007 vs. 2026? The gap is smaller than you think

Here's how the first iPhone's price stacks up against Apple's latest once inflation is factored in.

By Roger Fingas Nov. 8, 2026 11:45 am EST marleyPug/Shutterstock Add Engadget on Google: Google Discover

Understandably, it can feel like iPhone prices are out of control these days. The iPhone Duo starts at $1,999 and costs as much as $3,199 if you want to max out its storage. An iPhone Air is $1,100, despite having one rear camera and sporting inferior battery life next to the iPhone 17, never mind the iPhone 18 Pro. You can buy a decent laptop for the same price or less.