iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Likely To Get Smaller Dynamic Island
Expected in September 2026 under new CEO John Ternus, Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro series is rumored to feature a 35 per cent smaller Dynamic Island, a 2nm A20 Pro chip, and a variable aperture camera. With 12GB RAM and larger batteries, rising component costs are expected to trigger a USD 200 price hike, starting the lineup at USD 1,300.
As the tech world gears up for Apple's traditional fall event, leaks and analyst predictions paint a compelling picture of the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Expected to be unveiled in the first half of September 2026, possibly on September 8 or 9, these next-generation flagships are rumoured to bring substantial upgrades, particularly in design and performance. The devices are anticipated to hit store shelves globally shortly after the announcement, with an on-sale date potentially set for September 18, 2026. John Ternus, who will take over as Apple CEO on September 1, 2026, is widely expected to host the keynote event.
A Smaller Dynamic Island and Refined Design
One of the most talked-about rumoured changes is a significant reduction in the size of the Dynamic Island. Reports suggest the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 18 Pro models could shrink by approximately 35 per cent, moving Apple closer to a true full-screen experience. This is reportedly made possible by relocating Face ID's flood illuminator beneath the display. While the overall design is expected to retain similarities to the iPhone 17 Pro, subtle refinements, including a more frosted and seamless rear Ceramic Shield for MagSafe, are anticipated. iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone Ultra Launch Expected on September 8 or 9: Reports.
Next-Gen Performance with A20 Pro Chip
At the heart of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max is expected to be Apple's new A20 Pro chip. Built on TSMC's cutting-edge 2nm process (N2), this chipset is rumoured to deliver significant performance and efficiency improvements, potentially up to 15 per cent faster and 30 per cent more efficient than its A19 predecessor. Leaked images suggest the A20 Pro will utilise Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) technology for enhanced performance and thermal management. The Neural Processing Unit (NPU) is also rumoured to be considerably larger, pointing to a stronger focus on on-device AI capabilities.
Display and Camera Enhancements
Both the 6.3-inch iPhone 18 Pro and the 6.9-inch iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to feature advanced LTPO+ display technology, promising improved power efficiency and significantly higher peak brightness levels. Photography enthusiasts can look forward to rumoured camera upgrades. The main 48-megapixel Fusion camera is expected to feature a variable aperture, offering greater control over depth of field. A new custom-made Sony IMX-905 image sensor is also reportedly in the works, succeeding the IMX-903 found in the iPhone 17 Pro. Additionally, the Camera Control button is rumoured to be simplified, moving from touch and haptic feedback to solely pressure sensitivity.
Connectivity, Battery, and Colours
The upcoming Pro models are expected to feature Apple's C2 modem, promising enhanced cellular connectivity, with some regions like the U.S. potentially utilising Qualcomm modems for mmWave 5G support. Rumours also suggest the inclusion of a new N2 chip, and 5G via Satellite capabilities are also anticipated. Battery capacities are also anticipated to see an increase. The iPhone 18 Pro (eSIM only) is rumoured to pack a 4,288 mAh battery, while the physical SIM variant for markets like China is expected to have a 4,056 mAh unit. The larger iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to feature a 5,425 mAh battery for the eSIM-only variant and a 5,235 mAh unit for models with a physical SIM card. All Pro models are predicted to standardise on 12GB of RAM. In terms of aesthetics, a striking "Dark Cherry" is rumoured to be the new signature colour for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, alongside "Light Blue", "Dark Gray", and "Silver.". The existing Cosmic Orange and Deep Blue options are expected to be phased out. When Will Apple Launch iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max?
Pricing Expectations and India Availability
Analysts widely predict significant price increases for the iPhone 18 Pro models, largely attributed to rising component costs and a global memory shortage. Outgoing Apple CEO Tim Cook has reportedly indicated that "Price increases are unavoidable." Early predictions suggest the iPhone 18 Pro could start at USD 1,300, with the iPhone 18 Pro Max at USD 1,400, representing a USD 200 jump for both models. Official India pricing across variants and any launch offers are yet to be announced by Apple.
Disclaimer: AI tools assisted in compiling the foundational data and research for this report. The final content was reviewed, edited and verified by human editors at LatestLY.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 02, 2026 02:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
