The iPhone 18 is expected to feature
a new A20 chip, a redesigned back glass with a more unified look, and potential improvements to the camera system with faster aperture lenses. Other features include a new in-house C2 5G modem and a larger battery in the Pro Max model. Rumors also suggest the Pro models may have under-display Face ID in the future.
Design and display
- Unified back glass: The Pro models will reportedly have a redesigned back glass that minimizes color differences between the glass and aluminum frame.
- Under-display Face ID: There are rumors that Apple is working on under-display Face ID technology, which could appear in future models to create a more uninterrupted screen.
- Thicker chassis: The iPhone 18 Pro Max may be thicker to accommodate a larger battery and potentially a bigger vapor chamber.
You can watch this video to learn more about the iPhone 18’s design and display rumors:
Performance and connectivity
- A20 chip: The iPhone 18 will likely feature a new A20 chip built on TSMC’s 2nm process, which would improve performance and power efficiency.
- C2 modem: Apple’s new in-house C2 5G modem is expected, bringing improved performance and support for high-speed mmWave networks.
- Satellite connectivity: The iPhone 18 could potentially gain satellite connectivity, allowing for communication in areas without cellular service.
Camera
- Variable aperture: The iPhone 18 Pro models may feature variable aperture zoom capabilities.
- Faster aperture lenses: The telephoto lenses on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max could have a faster aperture for improved low-light performance.
- Upgraded front camera: The front-facing cameras on all but the iPhone 18e model are expected to be upgraded to 24 megapixels.
- Simplified Camera Control button: The Camera Control button might be simplified to use only pressure-sensing technology.
The
iPhone 18
lineup, expected in September 2026, will likely be a significant hardware year for Apple, potentially including its first foldable iPhone and major camera upgrades for the Pro models.
Key rumored features across the lineup include:
General Features (
iPhone 18
&
iPhone 18 Pro
)
- Processor: The A20 chip, built on an advanced 2-nanometer process, is expected to provide substantial performance and efficiency gains. Pro models will likely get an A20 Pro chip.
- Modem: Apple’s second-generation (C2) in-house 5G modem is expected, which should improve battery life and connectivity, potentially including full 5G satellite internet support.
- Front Camera: All
iPhone 18
models are rumored to feature an upgraded 24-megapixel front-facing camera.
- Software: The devices will launch with iOS 27, which is expected to heavily focus on advanced “Apple Intelligence” features.
- Camera Control Button: A simplified but still pressure-sensitive “Camera Control” button may be used across the lineup to reduce manufacturing costs.
iPhone 18 Pro
&
Pro Max
The Pro models are expected to maintain the same display sizes (6.3-inch and 6.9-inch) but will focus on internal upgrades.
- Display: Rumors suggest a smaller Dynamic Island or possibly a “hole-punch” cutout for the front camera, with Face ID moving under the display for a more uninterrupted screen.
- Camera: A major camera upgrade is anticipated, potentially featuring a 200MP main sensor (a shift from Sony to Samsung components) and a variable aperture lens for greater control over depth of field.
- Design: The Pro Max is expected to be slightly thicker and heavier, possibly to accommodate a larger battery. The two-tone look may be replaced by a more unified, seamless appearance.
- RAM: The Pro models are likely to include 12GB of RAM with a new packaging method for faster performance.
The
Foldable iPhone
(
iPhone 18 Fold
or Ultra)
2026 could see the debut of Apple’s first foldable phone, likely a high-end device with unique features.
- Design: It will likely feature a book-style fold with a 5.5-inch outer display and a large 7.8-inch inner display, using a titanium and aluminum frame to minimize creasing.
- Camera: It may feature a simpler rear camera setup (Main and Ultra Wide lenses, no Telephoto) but a sophisticated 24MP under-display front camera.
- Price: This new form factor is expected to be expensive, possibly priced between $1,800 and $2,500.
Standard and Air Models
The base
iPhone 18
and a potential
iPhone 18 Air
are also in development, with the standard model rumored to receive 12GB of RAM. However, reports suggest the launch schedule might be split, with the base models releasing in Spring 2027, several months after the Pro and Foldable versions.