Apple's standard iPhone 17 model, which launched last September, is curiously available to pre-order for delivery on the 16th September at major UK retailer John Lewis.
The iPhone model, which approaches a year old this month, is not expected to be refreshed this year. Apple is instead expected to launch the iPhone 18 in spring of 2027.
So why is the year old model available to pre-order? Here's our guesses:
1. Price Hikes
Apple could be lowering stock of the iPhone model, as they plan to hike iPhone prices next week. The upcoming pro models are expected to go up in price, and the iPhone 17 could go up with them.
Along with John Lewis, iPhone 17 is low in stock at Amazon, with just the white model available to buy (with delivery pushed as far back as October, even for Prime members).
Popular UK electronics retailer Currys, is currently only selling the black model, which is not available for home delivery.
If Apple does hike the price, we expect an increase of about £50 to £100, positioning the device in-line or just under its competitors, including Samsung and Google.
2. Supply Constraints
iPhone 17 could be facing supply constraints, as the memory chip crisis continues.
The concentrated chip market has shifted its focus in recent years, away from consumer tech to larger bulk-orders by AI companies, who need the computing power and memory to operate its large data centres.
This has already had an effect on Apple's supply chain. The Mac has faced supply constraints recently, with MacBook Air delivery dates being pushed back as far as 4 weeks.
This is, in part, why prices are rising across the board and Apple may be simply prioritising it's popular, more expensive pro lineup over it's other iPhone offerings.
Plus, they could be winding down production of iPhone 17 units, with the release of iPhone 18 expected in a matter of months.
3. Apple Releases iPhone 18 Earlier Than Expected
Apple could beat the rumours and release iPhone 18 next week. It would explain the 'surprise' in the events tagline, though this is unlikely.
The company typically reduces stock in the days leading up to the launch of the next generation, and retailers typically discount models and have limited stock, as currently seen with the iPhone 17 Pro.
This is our wildcard guess, so don't be surprised if you still see the iPhone 17 on Apple's website next week, but with a higher price.
4. iPhone 17 Stays in the Lineup as a Budget Option
Apple traditionally releases a standard model each year, and offers the previous generation at a lower price.
Currently, iPhone 17 is available for £799 and iPhone 16 is available for £699.
With an unprecedented split release expected, we don't know what will happen to the iPhone 16 next week, and if Apple will cut its budget offering to just the £599 iPhone 17e.
This outcome only seems possible if the iPhone 18 releases.
Final Thoughts
iPhone 17 will probably still be for sale next week, either at £799 or at a higher price.
We're not expecting an iPhone 18, as Apple's large supply chain would have usually leaked product details by now, as seen with the iPhone 18 Pro.
Unfortunately, price hikes and supply constraints seem to be the most likely answer, with retailers simply struggling to keep up with demand.
