T-Mobile is already teasing promotions for the iPhone Ultra and iPhone 18 Pro, but the most attractive savings appear reserved for a limited group of customers. Apple is set to announce the foldable iPhone Ultra and the iPhone 18 Pro on 9 September, alongside a new Apple Watch and further hardware.
With both devices expected to carry premium price tags, carrier promotions could prove decisive for buyers. T-Mobile has begun signalling its intentions ahead of the launch, though its approach comes with a notable restriction.
Exclusive, limited-time access
Select T-Mobile customers recently received text messages telling them they were eligible for an exclusive offer on a product lineup arriving on 9 September, a clear reference to Apple’s forthcoming devices. The promotion appears to be targeted, and customers are not required to upgrade their plan to qualify. Those who want to take part must opt in by launch day.
Recipients who opted in were told they were on the list and would receive further details at launch. Opting in is likely not binding, but it places customers first in line for the most lucrative offers.
This marks a shift in strategy. T-Mobile typically waits until a manufacturer has announced a device before revealing its promotions. Reserving the best savings for loyal customers ahead of time suggests a deliberate change of tack.
Higher prices expected
The iPhone Ultra is expected to start between roughly £1,650 and £1,800. Even for those who can afford it, securing one may prove difficult, as Apple is reportedly producing only a few hundred units per day.
For the iPhone 18 Pro, memory costs have reportedly climbed 400% compared with last year. While Apple may absorb some of that increase, a price rise appears unavoidable. One report anticipates an increase of up to 20% over current rates, translating to a starting price of around £1,025, while an earlier analysis suggested a starting figure closer to £1,100.
T-Mobile chief executive Srini Gopalan has previously said the company will not offer higher subsidies to offset rising smartphone prices, implying customers will pay more. That stance makes the recent messages all the more significant.
Last year, T-Mobile customers could save the equivalent of around £865 on the iPhone 17 series by trading in a device on its Experience Beyond or Go5G Next plans, which effectively made the iPhone 17 Pro free. With a price increase of up to the equivalent of around £235 this year, a comparable free offer may not be available to everyone. The customers who received the recent text, however, may be positioned to secure the biggest discounts.
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Image: phonearena.com
