A new leak depicts an iPhone 18 Pro that is noticeably thicker – about two millimeters more than the current model. Another, equally established source, however, sees hardly any change. So far, only one thing is certain: the reason for the potential increase lies in the camera.
Visually, the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to be largely identical to the iPhone 17 Pro – same display sizes, same aluminum unibody, same platform camera. This is precisely why the latest claim stands out, fitting into the overall picture of the iPhone 18 Pro known so far: A leaker reports a significantly increased thickness for the fall flagship model. Other sources contradict this – so the rumor situation is anything but clear at this point.
Approximately two millimeters more, according to a new leak
Weibo leaker Fixed Focus Digital reports that both the aluminum frame and the camera housing of the iPhone 18 Pro will be thicker than its predecessor. Citing leaked materials from the supply chain, he estimates the increase at around two millimeters and announces that the final thickness will be "quite surprising." In a previous post, he placed the overall thickness at approximately 9.9 to 10.9 millimeters.
Compared to the current models, this would be a noticeable leap: the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max each measure 8.75 millimeters. At the same time, Apple is expected to stick with aluminum and not return to titanium – the alloy reportedly offers "excellent" heat dissipation. As a side note, the leaker reiterates a warning: the new color options could, as with some iPhone 17 Pro devices, be more susceptible to paint chipping and edge wear.
Another leaker disagrees
At this point, it's worth looking at the opposing viewpoint, as this figure is not without its critics. Ice Universe, a tipster often considered highly accurate, recently revised his estimate for the iPhone 18 Pro Max to 8.75 millimeters – exactly the same thickness as the current 17 Pro Max, practically unchanged. This presents two opposing figures: a significant increase in thickness on the one hand, and a virtually unchanged casing on the other.
| Model | Case thickness |
|---|---|
| iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max (current) | 8.75 mm |
| iPhone 18 Pro (new leak) | approximately 9.9–10.9 mm |
| iPhone 18 Pro Max (Counter-Leak) | approximately 8.75 mm |
Both figures come from individual sources on Weibo, and both leakers have a mixed track record. A two-millimeter increase would be immediately noticeable on the device, while a difference in the tenths of a millimeter range would go unnoticed in hand or pocket. Until physical dummy models or more reliable reports are available, this specific figure should be treated with caution.
The new camera as a driving force
More undisputed than the exact height is the reason behind a potential increase: a redesigned main camera system. The iPhone 18 Pro is considered the first iPhone with a variable aperture – a component that Apple reportedly costs around 50 percent more than the previous fixed aperture. Production of the module is said to be ramping up at suppliers such as LG Innotek and Sunny Optical.
This aligns with earlier dummy models from April showing the iPhone 18 Pro Max's camera module at 11.54 millimeters – slightly more than its predecessor's 11.23 millimeters. The more expensive, complex camera package is therefore the most plausible candidate for the additional volume, whether in the module, the casing, or both.
Contrary to the iPhone Air 2
The direction is striking compared to the rest of the lineup. While the Pro model is rumored to be getting a larger battery, the indications for its decidedly slim sibling point in the opposite direction: It's rumored to have a larger battery in its still ultra-thin casing. This would mean Apple is simultaneously pursuing two contrasting design philosophies – maximum camera capability in the Pro, and maximum slimness in the Air.
The more expensive camera also fits into a price expectation that is already trending upwards: A price increase is considered likely for the Pro models coming this fall, fueled by rising component costs. Buyers in German-speaking countries are expected to bear the higher price accordingly.
Two camps, one open question
Until its unveiling in September, alongside Apple's first foldable iPhone, it remains unclear which of the two thickness estimates is closer to reality. The more sophisticated camera suggests a significant increase in thickness, while the assessment of a reliable leaker and Apple's interest in a familiar form factor argue against it. The picture will only become clear when near-production dummy models surface – until then, the increased thickness is a plausible, but by no means certain, scenario. (Image: Shutterstock / Anna Hoychuk)
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