A new leak has revealed what could be Apple’s biggest hardware push in years. According to a recent research note, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will introduce five major upgrades. If accurate, these changes could reshape Apple’s premium lineup later this year.
The most noticeable update may come from the front of the device. The Dynamic Island is expected to shrink. The flood illuminator used for Face ID could move under the display. As a result, users may see a cleaner and more immersive screen design.
On the back, Apple may refine its camera system again. The 48MP main camera is tipped to include variable aperture support. This would allow the lens to adjust how much light enters the sensor. In turn, users could gain better control over depth and low-light photography.
Three new chips are reportedly coming to the Pro models. The A20 Pro will power both devices. It will reportedly use TSMC’s first-generation 2nm process. Apple is also expected to adopt a new packaging design for this chip. That combination could deliver faster speeds and improved efficiency.
Wireless performance may also get an upgrade. The new N2 chip will replace the N1 chip found in the iPhone 17 family and the iPhone Air. The N1 currently manages Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread connectivity. While details remain unclear, the N2 may improve wireless stability and reduce power usage.
Apple’s modem strategy could also shift in a meaningful way. The C2 modem is expected to arrive in the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. Until now, Apple’s in-house modem efforts have stayed limited. The C1 modem appeared in the iPhone 16e. Meanwhile, the C1X was used in the iPhone Air. With C2, Apple’s custom modem could finally enter the mainstream Pro lineup.
If the leak proves accurate, Apple will unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September. The company is also expected to introduce the iPhone Fold at the same event. Meanwhile, the standard iPhone 18 may launch next spring alongside the iPhone 18e.
