Apple‘s next-generation Pro iPhones are expected to launch in September, and while the design may look familiar, the hardware upgrades could be among the biggest in years. Current leaks point to improvements across the display, camera, performance, battery, and connectivity, including a smaller Dynamic Island, Apple’s new C2 modem, 5G satellite support, and the first 2nm A-series chip.
Apple is widely expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and its first foldable iPhone, rumored to be called the iPhone Ultra, during the first half of September, with sales likely beginning later that month. Meanwhile, the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and second-generation iPhone Air are reportedly scheduled to arrive around March 2027.
Here’s everything rumored for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup so far.
Smaller Dynamic Island
Apple is expected to reduce the size of the Dynamic Island by moving the Face ID flood illuminator underneath the display. The change should provide more usable screen space while bringing the company closer to an uninterrupted full-screen design.
LTPO+ display
The iPhone 18 Pro models are expected to retain the same 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch display sizes and the familiar rear camera layout.
The biggest change is the panel itself. Apple is rumored to adopt LTPO+ OLED technology, which should improve power efficiency and help extend battery life.
Variable aperture camera
The 48MP Fusion main camera is rumored to gain a variable aperture, allowing users to adjust how much light reaches the sensor.
This could provide better control over depth of field and improve low-light photography, although the benefits will still be limited by the smaller sensors used in smartphones.
A20 Pro built on 2nm
Performance is expected to receive a significant boost with Apple’s new A20 Pro chip.
The processor is rumored to be built using TSMC’s first-generation 2nm process, replacing the current 3nm technology. Combined with updated chip packaging, it should deliver better performance while consuming less power.
Apple’s C2 modem
Apple is expected to continue replacing Qualcomm hardware with its own modem technology.
Following the C1 and C1X modems introduced in previous models, the iPhone 18 Pro lineup is rumored to debut the third-generation C2 modem, offering faster speeds, improved efficiency, and tighter integration with Apple’s custom silicon.
5G via satellite
The new C2 modem is also expected to introduce 5G satellite connectivity.
Unlike Apple’s existing satellite emergency features, the new system is rumored to support web browsing when Wi-Fi and traditional cellular networks are unavailable.
New N2 connectivity chip
The iPhone 18 Pro models are also expected to receive Apple’s next-generation N2 wireless chip.
While Apple hasn’t revealed its capabilities, the current N1 chip powers Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, Thread, AirDrop, and Personal Hotspot. The N2 is expected to improve wireless performance and reliability.
New Dark Cherry finish
Apple may refresh the Pro lineup with a new signature color called Dark Cherry.
According to leaks, it will be joined by Light Blue, Dark Gray, and Silver, while the current Cosmic Orange and Deep Blue options are expected to be discontinued.
Simpler Camera Control button
Apple is reportedly redesigning the Camera Control button by removing its touch-sensitive and haptic functions.
The button is expected to rely solely on pressure-sensitive input, simplifying its operation.
Redesigned rear Ceramic Shield
The rear Ceramic Shield surrounding the MagSafe area is also rumored to receive a visual refresh.
Leaks suggest Apple will replace the current two-tone finish with a more seamless frosted design.
Larger battery for the Pro Max
The iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to receive a battery that’s nearly 10% larger than its predecessor, according to alleged Chinese regulatory filings.
Combined with the more efficient display, processor, and modem, the larger battery could deliver one of the best battery life improvements in recent years.
Slightly thicker design
The larger battery may require a slightly thicker chassis.
Reports claim the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be thicker than both the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the standard iPhone 18 Pro.
Price could increase
The rumored upgrades may come with a higher price.
Current estimates suggest the iPhone 18 Pro lineup could launch US$200 to US$300 more expensive than the iPhone 17 Pro series, although Apple has yet to confirm pricing.
As always, these details are based on leaks and industry reports. Apple is expected to officially announce the iPhone 18 Pro lineup in September, when the company will confirm its specifications, pricing, colors, and availability.