Apple's storage upgrade pricing is considered excessively expensive.

Apple's high storage prices may deter users from purchasing higher storage models, encouraging quicker upgrades when space runs out. This contradicts their sustainability claim that "the greenest iPhone is the one you already own," since more affordable storage could extend phone lifespans and reduce e-waste.

The minimal 5GB of free iCloud storage is a further issue. Apple seemingly keeps this tier low to push users into paying for more storage or subscribing to an iCloud plan. Google offers 15GB of free storage, a more generous amount.

The subscription model can be difficult to leave. Many users are unwilling or find it technically challenging to download and back up their data to a physical drive. Apple sells dependence, not just storage. Some cloud storage solutions offer lifetime storage, such as pCloud, which provides 500GB for $200 or 2TB for $400.

Apple's pricing relies on customer loyalty. Switching from iMessage, AirDrop, and Apple Watch feels like losing part of a user's digital life. This comfort level allows Apple to justify prices that competitors cannot. When a storage upgrade equals the cost of a midrange Android phone, it seems like a tax on loyalty rather than a premium option. A $1,200 "Pro" phone should not cause storage concerns. Professionals like filmmakers and journalists require consistent storage access.

While Apple shouldn't give away storage or make 512GB the default, lowering upgrade prices would make the company appear less greedy.

In conclusion, Apple's iPhones are excellent, and the iPhone 17 has increased base storage. However, upgrade pricing is a blatant profit strategy. Apple pairs great engineering with a business model that exploits user loyalty.

The subscription model is hard to abandon. Few want to download and back up everything to a drive, which can be difficult. Apple sells dependence, not just storage. Some services like pCloud offer lifetime storage, like 500GB for $200 or 2TB for $400.

Apple’s pricing depends on loyalty. Leaving iMessage, AirDrop, and Apple Watch feels disruptive. Apple uses this to justify high prices. Storage upgrades costing as much as a midrange Android feel like a tax on devotion. A $1,200 "Pro" phone shouldn't cause storage issues. Professionals need reliable storage access.

Apple doesn't need to give away storage or make 512GB standard, but lower prices would seem fairer.

Ultimately, Apple makes great smartphones, and the iPhone 17 now has more base storage. But upgrade pricing remains a clear profit strategy, combining brilliant technology with a business model that leverages customer loyalty.