The buzz around Apple’s next flagship phone, the iPhone 18 Pro is already intense, even though the device won’t be official for many more months. From display redesigns to next-gen chips and camera upgrades, leaks and rumors are painting a picture of what could be one of Apple’s most interesting iPhones yet.
Here’s the latest scoop on what to expect based on a mix of credible reports and insider whispers from leakers and analysts.
Release Timeline
Apple is widely expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro lineup at a fall event, most likely in September 2026, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro Max and possibly even a foldable iPhone model. Rumors suggest the regular iPhone 18 and an iPhone 18e might launch later, potentially in spring 2027 instead of with the high-end models.
Design & Display Leaks
Dynamic Island & Front Design
One of the biggest leaks centers on the Dynamic Island, the cutout that houses the front camera and Face ID modules. Rumors indicate Apple could dramatically reduce the size of the Dynamic Island, shrinking it by around 35 % compared to current iPhone models. This would make the display look cleaner and more immersive.
There was also chatter online about Apple moving the front-facing camera to the top-left corner, but newer leaks suggest that this may have been a misinterpretation of supply-chain details. Instead, only some Face ID sensors might sit under the display, keeping the camera and other key components in a central but smaller Dynamic Island.
Display Technology
The iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to retain a 6.3-inch LTPO 120 Hz display like its predecessor, but with improved power efficiency and perhaps a more refined under-screen sensor layout.
Under-Display Face ID — Finally?
One of the most exciting rumors is that Apple may bring under-display Face ID technology to the iPhone 18 Pro series. That would be a major shift from the traditional sensor cutout approach and could lead to a truly edge-to-edge screen without visible interruptions depending on how Apple implements the tech.
While this feature isn’t confirmed, multiple sources suggest Apple has been working toward integrating Face ID components beneath the display for years, and 2026 could be the year it finally happens.
Chipset & Performance
A20 Pro Chip
Leaks strongly point to the iPhone 18 Pro being powered by Apple’s upcoming A20 Pro chip, constructed on a cutting-edge fabrication process (potentially 2 nm). This chip is expected to bring faster performance and greater energy efficiency compared to the A19 Pro in the iPhone 17 Pro.
There’s also talk about innovative chip packaging that could make memory and the Neural Engine work more efficiently, boosting overall responsiveness.
Camera Upgrades
Apple always pushes camera tech in Pro models, and the iPhone 18 Pro may be no exception.
Variable Aperture
One standout leak is that the main camera could get a variable aperture system, allowing the lens to physically adjust how much light enters the sensor. This is something DSLR-style cameras use and could significantly improve performance in different lighting conditions.
Other Camera Tech
There are also whispers that Samsung might supply a next-generation stacked sensor for sharper, cleaner images — a rare move for Apple, which typically sources sensors from Sony.
New Colors & Style Choices
Leaks suggest Apple may introduce fresh color options for the iPhone 18 Pro — including Coffee, Burgundy, and Purple finishes. These warmer, fashion-friendly tones would mark a shift from the more traditional slate and silver hues Apple usually offers.
Connectivity & Other Specs
C2 Modem
The iPhone 18 Pro may debut Apple’s C2 cellular modem, offering improved 5G speeds and better power efficiency. This would be another step away from Qualcomm modems in previous models.
To Conclude
Leaks around the iPhone 18 Pro paint a picture of a device that’s evolutionary yet potentially ambitious — blending refined design tweaks with big-ticket internal upgrades. Whether it’s under-display Face ID, variable camera aperture, or a blazing fast A20 Pro chip, there’s plenty to get excited about.
Of course, nothing is official until Apple confirms it. But if even half of these leaks are accurate, the iPhone 18 Pro could rewrite what we expect from high-end smartphones in 2026.