After Wednesday's event, Apple let media try the new iPhone 18 Pro models. They look almost identical to the iPhone 17 Pro, but with subtle changes: less color difference between the aluminum frame and glass back, so the 18 Pro models are more uniform. Available in silver, black, burgundy, and glacier (light blue). Burgundy looks especially good in person, and black is back. Sizes remain 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch, but both are slightly heavier—the Pro Max weighs 16 grams more than the 17 Pro Max.

The Dynamic Island is slimmer and can show up to three Live Activities. Inside, a new 2nm A20 Pro chip and a vapor chamber cooling system that's three times larger support up to 40 percent faster sustained performance. RAM stays at 12GB. Battery life improves: up to 36 hours for the Pro and 45 hours for the Pro Max. USB-C charging hits 50 percent in 15 minutes with a 60W adapter.

The 48MP Main camera has a variable aperture with four stops (ƒ/1.48, ƒ/1.8, ƒ/2.8, ƒ/4.0) and new Pro Controls for manual adjustments. Photographic Styles add texture and grain, and smart focus tracking locks on even if a subject leaves the frame. Cinematic effects can be added after capture.

All 6.3-inch models have the C2 modem; U.S. Pro Max models use a Qualcomm modem, while non-U.S. Pro Max models have the C2. The C2 supports mmWave 5G. Prices rose by $100: the iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199 and the Pro Max at $1,299. Storage starts at 256GB, up to 2TB. Pre-orders start September 12 at 5:00 a.m. PT, launching September 18.