Apple is all set to announce the foldable iPhone Ultra and iPhone 18 Pro on September 9, but these pricey devices might be out of reach for many consumers. That's where carrier promos step in. T-Mobile is already teasing its offer, but there's a glaring caveat.
Exclusive, limited-time access
T-Mobile wants eligible customers to register for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra deals. | Image by Reddit
Select T-Mobile customers recently received texts telling them they were eligible for an exclusive offer on a lineup dropping on September 9. No points for guessing that the carrier is hinting at Apple's upcoming devices.
This appears to be a targeted offer, and customers aren't required to upgrade their plan. Those who want to qualify must opt in by launch day.
After saying YES I just get text this: T-Mobile: You’re officially on the list! Get ready to snag your deal soon. Stay tuned for more details at launch.
Future_Cauliflower95, Reddit user, September 2026
What's T-Mobile up to?
7 Votes
A shift in strategy
T-Mobile usually waits until a manufacturer has announced its device before revealing its promos. This new approach suggests that it's reserving the best savings for loyal customers.
Customers who opted in were told they were on the list and would be given more details at launch.
Opting in is likely not binding, but it puts you first in line for the most lucrative offers. That's especially important this year.
Recent T-Mobile changes that impact subsidized devices
The iPhone Ultra is expected to start at between $2,099 and $2,299. Even if you can afford it, snagging one will be tough as Apple is reportedly only producing a few hundred units per day.
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As for the iPhone 18 Pro, memory costs have purportedly climbed 400% compared to last year. While Apple may absorb some of that hit, a price hike is unavoidable. A recent report expects up to a 20% increase over current rates, translating to a starting price of around $1,300. An earlier analysis pegged the starting price at $1,400.
T-Mobile CEO Srini Gopalan previously said that the company won't offer higher subsidies to offset rising smartphone prices, implying that customers will have to pay more. That's what makes these cryptic texts all the more intriguing.
No iPhone 18 Pro 'On Us'?
Last year, T-Mobile customers could save $1,100 on the iPhone 17 series when trading in a device on its Experience Beyond or Go5G Next plans. That meant a free iPhone 17 Pro.
However, a price increase of up to $300 means there might be no "on Us" deal this year for everyone, but the lucky few who got the recent text might be able to nab the biggest discounts.
Apple Watch Ultra 2 flash sale! Limited time offer!
Save $30 on Apple Watch Ultra 2 from Back Market. Discount automatically applied at checkout. Offer ends 6 September 2026 at 23:59.
Anam Hamid is a computer scientist turned tech journalist who has a keen interest in the tech world, with a particular focus on smartphones and tablets. She has previously written for Android Headlines and has also been a ghostwriter for several tech and car publications. Anam is not a tech hoarder and believes in using her gadgets for as long as possible. She is concerned about smartphone addiction and its impact on future generations, but she also appreciates the convenience that phones have brought into our lives. Anam is excited about technological advancements like folding screens and under-display sensors, and she often wonders about the future of technology. She values the overall experience of a device more than its individual specs and admires companies that deliver durable, high-quality products. In her free time, Anam enjoys reading, scrolling through Reddit and Instagram, and occasionally refreshing her programming skills through tutorials.
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