There is growing evidence of a striking design change surrounding the iPhone 18 Pro. Several leaks and images from various sources suggest that Apple intends to significantly reduce the size of the Dynamic Island. This is not just about a visual adjustment, but a technical advancement that could eventually enable virtually invisible front-facing sensors.
Since its introduction, the Dynamic Island has been one of the most distinctive elements of the iPhone design. At the same time, it's considered a transitional solution on the way to a fully under-display camera system. With the iPhone 18 Pro, this transition appears to be taking a decisive step further. Current leaks paint a relatively clear picture, although not all sources are equally reliable.
First images of a prototype have surfaced
A user on the X platform named "earlyappleleaks" has published an image allegedly showing a prototype of the iPhone 18 Pro. A noticeably smaller Dynamic Island is visible compared to previous models.
The image shows the flashlight of another iPhone being directed at a corner of the display. This reveals a small, circular area beneath the screen. This is interpreted as a possible indication of a misplaced Face ID sensor, which may already be located under the display.
However, caution is advised: The account is considered relatively new and has no reliable track record of success with leaks. Therefore, the authenticity of the image cannot be independently verified.
Face ID under the display as a crucial step
The suspected placement of Face ID under the display plays a key role in miniaturizing the Dynamic Island. Several previous reports had already indicated that Apple plans to initially move the TrueDepth components under the display.
Should this step be implemented, the visible notch could be significantly reduced, as less hardware would require space on the front. Face ID is therefore considered the first key technology on the path to a completely bezel-less display without visible sensors.
Screen protector leaks support the rumors
Regardless of the prototype image, the well-known leaker "Ice Universe" has provided further evidence. He published images of alleged screen protectors for the iPhone 18 Pro.
These images show significantly smaller cutouts for the Dynamic Island compared to current iPhone models. The shape and size align with expectations from other leaks.
Additionally, similar images of these protective films are appearing on Chinese social media. The correlation between multiple sources strengthens the assumption that this could be a genuine design feature.
Estimate: Up to 35 percent smaller
Leaker "Majin Bu" goes a step further and cites specific figures. According to him, the Dynamic Island in the iPhone 18 Pro could be up to 35 percent smaller than in the iPhone 17 Pro.
This assessment is based on the evaluation of several pieces of information from the supply chain and from the aftermarket. Of particular relevance is the fact that the corresponding accessories appear to already be in production. This suggests that manufacturers are working with a final, or at least largely finalized, design.
Differing opinions persist
Despite the numerous indications, there is no complete consensus among the sources. Some reports continue to question the rumors, citing a lack of confirmation from reliable sources.
The origin of individual leaks is causing uncertainty. Nevertheless, an overall trend is emerging: the majority of current information suggests a shrinking of the Dynamic Island.
Change may apply to the entire iPhone 18 series
According to „Ice Universe“, the smaller Dynamic Island could be used not only in the iPhone 18 Pro, but in the entire iPhone 18 series.
At the same time, reports indicate that the display bezels will remain unchanged and will be based on the design of the iPhone 17 generation. This would mean Apple is selectively refining individual components without drastically altering the overall look.
New release plan under discussion
In addition to the design changes, there are also indications of an adjustment to the release strategy. Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro models in the fall, along with the company's first foldable iPhone.
The standard iPhone 18, on the other hand, might not appear until early next year. This split would mark a new, staggered product cycle.
iPhone 18 Pro before the next display step
The current leaks paint a consistent picture: The iPhone 18 Pro could appear with a significantly smaller Dynamic Island, made possible by Face ID components placed under the display.
Even though not all information is confirmed, several independent sources support this development. Should this prove true, the iPhone 18 Pro would be another step towards a virtually bezel-less smartphone display. (Image: Shutterstock / Ekaterina_Minaeva)
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