iPhone 18 Pro Rumors: Two-Phase Launch, A20 Pro Chip, and Variable Aperture
According to reports, Apple is planning a significant shift in the iPhone launch cycle next year, adopting a two-phase release model.
This means the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the iPhone Fold will launch in September 2026, followed by the iPhone 18 and 18e in the Spring of 2027.
Design and Display
- Design Style: Rumors suggest that the design of the iPhone 18 Pro series will be a continuation of the iPhone 17 Pro style.
- Screen Size: Display sizes are also expected to remain unchanged. The MagSafe charging area may feature a "slightly transparent" design.
- Smaller Dynamic Island: Reports are mixed on whether the iPhone 18 Pro series will adopt Under-Display Face ID.
- The Information reports that Apple plans to eliminate the Dynamic Island in the new models, replacing it with a single punch-hole camera in the upper left corner of the screen.
- Another report suggests the size of the Dynamic Island will merely be reduced, and Under-Display Face ID and camera technology will not be ready next year.
Performance and Connectivity
- A20 Pro Chip: The A20 chip is expected to be manufactured using TSMC's 2nm process. More advanced packaging technology will allow for tighter integration between the processor, unified memory, and Neural Engine, which is expected to boost performance for AI-related tasks.
- C2 Modem: According to supply chain analyst Jeff Pu, Apple plans to equip the iPhone 18 Pro models with the next-generation C2 modem, replacing the current Qualcomm modem. The C2 is expected to deliver faster speeds and higher power efficiency.
- 5G Satellite Internet: The Information reports that Apple plans to add support for 5G satellite networks to the iPhone as early as next year, meaning devices could connect directly to satellites without needing a ground base station.
Camera and Controls
- New Camera Sensor: Samsung is reportedly developing a new triple-stacked image sensor expected to be used in the iPhone 18. This sensor is designed to improve camera responsiveness, reduce noise, and expand dynamic range.
- Variable Aperture: Apple plans to equip next year's iPhone 18 Pro models with a variable aperture lens. The variable aperture can physically adjust the lens opening to increase light intake in low-light environments and control the depth of field (the range of relative sharpness in the image).
- Camera Controls: Apple plans to simplify the design of the camera control button on the iPhone 18 series models to reduce costs. On the iPhone 18 models, Apple will remove the capacitive sensing layer from the camera control button, retaining only the pressure-sensing functionality.
That concludes the content for this report. Are you looking forward to the iPhone 18 Pro? Feel free to leave a comment to discuss!
