5 most expensive phones in the world
Many people think of mobile phones as just a communication tool. But in the world of luxury technology, there are phones that are crafted like jewelry, with prices that you would never expect.
You may have just splurged on the latest flagship phone, leaving your bank account a little lighter. But compared to the devices we’re about to explore, your phone is just the appetizer.
In fact, there are mobile phones that cost more than cars, even luxury cars. Whether it’s because of their luxurious design, rare materials, or unique technology, these devices are more than just for calling, texting, or surfing the web. They are symbols of status and power.
1. iPhone 6 Falcon Supernova Pink Diamond
The iPhone 6 Falcon Supernova Pink Diamond is more than just a smartphone, it’s the ultimate symbol of luxury. Custom-made by the US company Falcon Luxury in 2019, the device is currently the most expensive phone ever made, with an unbelievable price tag of $48.5 million.
This phone is owned by Nita Ambani, wife of billionaire Mukesh Ambani (India), Asia's richest man. The unmistakable highlight is on the back: a rare 7.4 carat pink diamond is placed in the center of a 24-carat gold case, surrounded by anti-theft platinum, all giving it the appearance of a million-dollar jewelry.
Despite the outdated internal hardware, using an Apple A8 chip, 1GB of RAM, and no 5G support, the Falcon retains all the features of a standard iPhone, including a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, an 8MP iSight camera, Siri, Touch ID, and Apple Pay. That means you can still make calls, surf the web, or check email if you dare to take it out.
Don't expect high performance or real-world usability, though, as this is a device for the super-rich who see technology as a status statement rather than a daily necessity.
The iPhone 6 Falcon Supernova is not for the masses because it is a technological trophy, demonstrating craftsmanship, absolute exclusivity, and a level of spending that is hard to match.
2. iPhone 5 Black Diamond Edition
If you think the iPhone is just a technology device, the iPhone 5 Black Diamond Edition will make you think again. This special work by British designer Stuart Hughes combines the essence of Apple technology with the level of master jewelry craftsmanship. The price of 15 million USD is enough to make this device become the second most expensive phone ever made.
This phone stands out with a 24-carat solid gold case, studded with more than 600 white diamonds, of which 53 are set around the Apple logo on the back.
The most special highlight is the Home button, where a rare 7.4-carat black diamond is placed, giving the feeling of using a piece of jewelry rather than an electronic device.
In terms of technology, the iPhone 5 Black Diamond Edition retains the original configuration of the iPhone 5 model launched in 2012 with a 4-inch Retina display, Apple A6 chip, 1GB RAM, and memory options from 16GB to 64GB. The 8MP rear camera and 1.2MP front camera are still enough to meet basic needs, but clearly, this is not a device for those who care about performance or modern features such as Face ID, wireless charging or 5G connectivity.
Instead, the iPhone 5 Black Diamond Edition is a symbol of class and exclusivity, an item for collectors or billionaires who want to own a phone like no other in the world.
3. iPhone 4S Elite Gold Edition
The iPhone 4S Elite Gold Edition is one of the most luxurious devices ever created, coming from the hands of famous British designer Stuart Hughes - who turns technology into living art. Launched in 2011, with a price tag of 9.4 million USD, this is not just a phone, but also a symbol of luxury and unbelievable rarity.
The body is crafted from 24-carat solid gold, surrounded by a rim made from rosewood, a precious wood favored in high-end craftsmanship. Covering the rim are 500 exquisitely cut diamonds, giving it a brilliant and outstanding appearance. The Home button is replaced by a large 8.6-carat diamond, accompanied by a 7.4-carat backup diamond to add more personalization for the owner.
Not only the phone, but even the packaging is a work of art with a custom chest containing real dinosaur bones and many extremely rare gemstones, bringing historical and natural elements into the world of modern technology.
In terms of configuration, the device still retains the original iPhone 4S hardware such as Apple A5 chip, 512MB RAM, 3.5-inch Retina display and 8MP rear camera. Obviously, this is not a phone for performance or modern features, but for collectors or luxury enthusiasts, the iPhone 4S Elite Gold Edition is a unique treasure, both a phone and a valuable work of art.
4. iPhone 4 Diamond Rose Edition
Produced in 2010, with a price of 8 million USD, iPhone 4 Diamond Rose Edition is also the work of British designer Stuart Hughes. This phone has a 100 gram rose gold body, encrusted with 500 expensive diamonds, in which the special highlight is the Home button crafted from an extremely rare 7.4 carat pink diamond.
Not only does it have a solid hardware, the iPhone 4 Diamond Rose Edition is housed in a solid granite case, offering a truly personalized and secure experience. Handcrafted details such as the hand-polished Nubuck leather case and the exquisitely finished edges transform the phone into a luxurious work of art rather than just a mobile device.
Technically, the phone retains the standard iPhone 4 hardware, including a 3.5-inch Retina display, Apple A4 chip, 512MB of RAM, and 16GB to 32GB of storage. However, by today's technological standards, the device is clearly outdated and no longer suitable for regular use.
The iPhone 4 Diamond Rose Edition is not for ordinary users, but for collectors who are passionate about difference, exclusivity and timeless value.
5. Goldstriker iPhone 3GS Supreme Edition
Launched in 2009, the Goldstriker iPhone 3GS Supreme Edition with a price tag of $3.2 million was proof that technology could also become a fashion and status symbol.
Designed by Stuart Hughes, a name synonymous with luxury devices, this iPhone sports a completely different look than Apple's standard model.
The entire bezel is crafted from high-grade platinum, studded with 130 exquisite diamonds, highlighting the brilliant beauty from every angle. The center of the design is the 7.1-carat diamond Home button, creating a sparkling highlight with a strong sense of exclusivity.
In addition to the main device, the Goldstriker iPhone 3GS Supreme Edition also comes with a specially designed ostrich leather safari wallet, reminiscent of the owner's adventurous, luxurious and personal aesthetic taste. This is not just a phone, but a lifestyle statement.
Hardware-wise, the device retains the same specifications as the iPhone 3GS, with a 3.5-inch (480×320 pixel) display, an Apple A4 chip, 256MB of RAM, and 32GB of internal storage. The device is factory unlocked and supports global use, a plus for collectors who want to use the device as a mobile icon.
However, with outdated software and no support for modern features like Siri or iCloud, the Goldstriker iPhone 3GS Supreme Edition is hardly suitable for regular use. It is a collector's item, where artistic value and uniqueness are paramount.
While most users only need a durable, beautiful and feature-rich phone, the world still has luxury phones that are beyond the reach of most people. The most expensive devices on the planet are not just communication tools, but also symbols of class, fashion and exquisite craftsmanship.