Next week, Apple is set to unveil iOS 27 at its Worldwide Developers Conference, offering the first glimpse of the software that will power the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Beyond the anticipated AI overhaul, the next flagship smartphones are generating significant excitement.
Expected to launch in September, a wave of leaks and reports suggests the camera could feature a variable aperture, functioning more like a DSLR by allowing users to control light intake. Additionally, recent rumours indicate the handsets might avoid a price hike despite the RAM crisis. Apple is also reportedly considering a shift in its launch strategy, potentially dedicating the September event solely to the iPhone 18 Pro models and the long-rumoured iPhone Fold, with the standard iPhone 18 delayed to 2027.
Latest Rumours
In early May, South Korean publication The Elec reported that the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max could feature advanced LTPO+ OLED panels from Samsung Display and LG Display, offering improved power efficiency and reduced burn-in risk. In June, Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station claimed the iPhone 18 Pro might have a slightly larger battery, while the Pro Max could jump to between 5,100mAh and 5,200mAh. Both models could also benefit from Apple's more efficient 2nm A20 chip and next-generation C2 modem, potentially delivering the longest battery life on any iPhone.
Release Date
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is moving away from its annual September launch event, instead spreading iPhone launches throughout the year. This change aims to reduce strain on marketing, engineering, and suppliers, while also smoothing revenue distribution. Gurman predicts the regular iPhone 18 will not appear in September 2026; instead, Apple will launch only the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, alongside its first foldable phone. The standard iPhone 18 is expected in spring 2027, alongside the iPhone 18e. The September event date remains predictable: Apple typically announces new iPhones in the second week of September. Given Labour Day on 7 September, the announcement is likely on 8 or 9 September, with pre-orders on 11 September and release on 18 September.
Price
Despite rising DRAM and NAND storage costs, analysts suggest Apple will absorb extra expenses. Analyst Jeff Pu of GF Securities indicates the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will cost the same as the iPhone 17 Pro models, thanks to cost management and favourable memory chip deals. Ming-Chi Kuo echoed this, predicting unchanged prices. On 12 May, MacRumors reported that Pu expects an aggressive pricing strategy, with starting prices either unchanged or only slightly increased.
Design and Display
The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to resemble the iPhone 17 Pro, with a key change: a smaller Dynamic Island. Leaker Ice Universe claims it will be 35% narrower, measuring about 13.5mm wide compared to 20.7mm. Several leakers have supported this, with a prototype image from Early Apple showing a shrunken Dynamic Island and a faint circular area hinting at an under-screen Face ID flood illuminator. However, under-screen Face ID is not expected until at least 2027. The bezels are expected to remain the same, and the Pro Max could be slightly thicker and heavier, potentially reaching 243g. The displays are expected to remain 6.3in and 6.9in, with a triple-lens system and plateau design. Dummy units show thicker camera protrusions, likely due to the variable aperture upgrade. A dark cherry colourway has been spotted in dummy units.
Colours
Apple is reportedly reducing the two-tone contrast seen on the iPhone 17 Pro. Leakers suggest a deep red colour (dark cherry), a light blue similar to mist blue, a dark grey, and a silver option will be available.
Cameras
Ming-Chi Kuo claimed in December 2024 that the main rear camera will feature variable aperture for the first time, enabling DSLR-like control. This has been corroborated by multiple leakers. The telephoto lens is also expected to get a larger aperture, upgrading from f/2.8. Samsung has developed a three-layer stacked camera sensor for the iPhone 18, improving responsiveness and reducing noise.
Specs
The iPhone 18 Pro will likely be powered by the A20 chip using TSMC's 2nm process, offering up to 15% faster performance and 30% greater efficiency. It may integrate RAM directly with the processor for enhanced Apple Intelligence performance. The C2 modem is expected to improve 5G and potentially support satellite connectivity for full internet access. Battery capacity for the Pro Max could reach 5,100mAh to 5,200mAh, with efficiency gains from the A20 chip.
Stay tuned for more updates as leaks emerge.
