The iPhone 18 Pro is already in the testing phase. A Chinese source has confirmed on the platform Weibo that Apple's upcoming Pro models have reached the mass production testing phase. This is a clear indication that Apple is sticking to its usual schedule and plans to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro as planned in September 2026.
To understand the significance of this news, it's essential to understand how Apple develops and produces new iPhones. The journey from the initial concept to the finished device on store shelves is lengthy and follows a clearly structured phase model. First, each device undergoes the Engineering Validation Test (EVT) phase, in which fundamental design decisions are made and verified. This is followed by the Design Validation Test (DVT) phase, where the design is finalized and validated. The final phase is the Production Validation Test (PVT) phase, in which production tools are used and parts of the production lines in the factories are ramped up. This phase doesn't yet involve full-scale mass production, but rather the verification of manufacturing processes, production yields, and quality control. Actual mass production typically begins in the summer months leading up to the launch.
In February, Apple typically transitions from the DVT phase to the early PVT phase. According to the latest leak, this is precisely where the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to be.
The leak: What the informant revealed
The informant behind the Weibo account Fixed Focus Digital is a well-known figure in the Apple rumor mill. In his latest post, he described how the iPhone 18 Pro models are already in the mass production testing phase. Specifically, this means that Apple has begun ramping up production and is actively testing the manufacturing processes in the factories.
Additionally, the informant stated that production tests have also begun for the regular iPhone 18. However, since the standard model is not expected to launch until early 2027, this likely refers to an earlier validation phase, probably the middle to end of the EVT phase or the beginning of the DVT phase. Therefore, caution is advised when interpreting this information.
Design: No big surprises expected
Fixed Focus Digital also clarified in its post that, according to its information, there will be no major changes to the materials used. The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to continue to be based on the existing design specifications of the iPhone 17 series. This statement aligns with previous industry reports that also indicated no major design update for the Pro models this year.
The only externally noticeable change might be a smaller Dynamic Island. While this would be a subtle adjustment that would hardly be noticeable to many users, it shows that Apple is also refining the details. Those who were hoping for a completely new case design or new colors will therefore have to wait for the next model.
Technology: The most important innovations under the hood
Even though there are few changes to the external appearance, there are some relevant internal innovations that will set the iPhone 18 Pro apart from its predecessor.
A20 chip
The iPhone 18 Pro will be equipped with Apple's new A20 chip. As with every new Pro model, a significant performance leap is to be expected, especially in the areas of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and overall processing speed.
Camera system with variable aperture
One of the most exciting technical innovations is the new camera system with variable aperture. This means that the lens aperture can automatically adjust depending on the lighting conditions, similar to what is known from professional cameras. This promises greater flexibility when shooting photos and videos under different conditions.
Custom-designed C2 modem
Apple uses its own C2 modem in the iPhone 18 Pro. This further reduces the company's dependence on external suppliers and promises improvements in the device's connectivity and energy efficiency.
iPhone Fold: The real star of autumn
Despite the iPhone 18 Pro's solid technical innovations, the model could fade into the background in the public eye. Well-known Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman has reported that the Pro models are unlikely to be the main focus of Apple's keynote this fall. Instead, Apple's first foldable iPhone is expected to steal the spotlight.
Should Apple actually unveil a foldable phone alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, it would be a historic first for the company. Such a device would not only fundamentally expand Apple's product line but also revitalize the entire smartphone market. For the iPhone 18 Pro, this means that while it will be a strong and reliable update, it likely won't dominate the media headlines it might have in another year.
iPhone 18 Pro: The reliable choice in an exciting autumn
The iPhone 18 Pro follows Apple's tried-and-tested formula: no radical overhaul, but a well-thought-out update with meaningful improvements. The A20 chip, the camera system with variable aperture, and the new C2 modem make the device an attractive choice for anyone looking for a powerful and reliable smartphone. The fact that the design remains largely unchanged is unlikely to bother many users, as long as the internal components deliver.
The big unknown remains the iPhone Fold. If Apple actually unveils this device in the fall of 2026, it will command all the attention. The iPhone 18 Pro might not play the starring role then, but it will remain the safe, high-quality choice for millions of users worldwide. (Image: Shutterstock / Anna Hoychuk)
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