Early details on the iPhone 18 series suggest Apple might split its release into two phases, launching the 18 Pro and Pro Max in September 2026, followed by the base models in spring 2027. Design-wise, the Pro models appear to keep the iPhone 17 Pro's general aesthetic, though the rear casing might gain a more unified, less two-tone look.

The Pro Max variant is rumored to house a larger battery, potentially reaching 5,200 mAh, necessitating a slightly thicker chassis, which would make it the heaviest iPhone yet. Internally, the phones will reportedly debut the A20 chip, built on TSMC's 2nm process, promising around a 15 percent speed boost and 30 percent better efficiency over the A19 generation.

Camera hardware looks set for significant upgrades, including a variable aperture main lens, a first for the iPhone, giving users DSLR-like control over depth of field. Furthermore, Apple may switch a key image sensor supplier; Samsung is reportedly developing a new three-layer stacked sensor specifically for the 2026 lineup, signaling a major supply chain shift away from Sony.

Reports also indicate the incorporation of Apple's in-house C2 modem, which would finally bring mmWave 5G support to the US Pro models, reducing dependency on Qualcomm. While rumors persist about eliminating the Dynamic Island for under-screen sensors, analysts suggest a smaller cutout is more likely for the 18 Pro generation.