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Apple is expected to unveil its next generation of premium iPhones in September, headlined by the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
While the overall design is expected to remain largely unchanged from the iPhone 17 Pro lineup, multiple hardware upgrades could be on the way, according to MacRumors.
Apple is reportedly focused on performance, battery life, camera capabilities and connectivity rather than a dramatic redesign.
A foldable “iPhone Ultra” is also rumored to debut alongside the Pro models, while the standard iPhone 18 lineup is expected to arrive in early 2027.
Performance
One of the most noticeable changes could be a smaller Dynamic Island. Apple could move Face ID’s flood illuminator beneath the display, allowing the cutout at the top of the screen to shrink while retaining its existing functionality.
The Pro models are also expected to adopt “Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide Plus” display technology—although the phones are rumored to retain 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch display sizes and a three-camera rear design, the new tech could improve efficiency and offer longer battery life.
Photography could receive a boost through a variable aperture on the 48-megapixel Fusion camera.
The change would allow users to adjust how much light reaches the sensor, providing greater control over depth of field and offering more flexibility in different shooting conditions.
Apple’s new A20 Pro chip is expected to power the device, reportedly manufactured using Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s first-generation two-nanometer process.
Compared with the current architecture, the new chip is expected to improve performance while consuming less power.
Connectivity
Apple is also expected to continue expanding its in-house modem technology with a new C2 cellular modem. The chip would succeed the C1 and C1X modems introduced in earlier devices, with further improvements to speed and energy efficiency.
One of the biggest connectivity upgrades could be 5G via satellite.
The C2 modem reportedly would enable satellite-based 5G connectivity, allowing users to browse the web even when conventional cellular networks or Wi-Fi are unavailable.
Design
On the design front, Apple is reportedly planning a new Dark Cherry finish for the Pro models.
The color would join Light Blue, Dark Gray and Silver, replacing the current Cosmic Orange and Deep Blue options.
The Camera Control button may also be simplified—Apple might remove its touch-sensitive and haptic feedback functions, leaving only pressure-sensitive input for a more straightforward experience.
Another cosmetic change could involve a redesigned rear Ceramic Shield.
The MagSafe area is rumored to feature a more seamless, frosted appearance rather than the current two-tone finish.
Battery
The iPhone 18 Pro Max is also expected to receive a significantly larger battery.
According to reports citing Chinese regulatory filings, capacity could increase by nearly 10 percent compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, potentially extending battery life further.
Accommodating that larger battery may require a slightly thicker design for the Pro Max model than both the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the standard iPhone 18 Pro.
Newsweek has reached out to Apple for comment via email.
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