Even if the iPhone 18 Pro doesn't immediately stand out as a revolution on the outside, there will be many significant changes internally. The size remains the same, but the technology behind it is noticeably different. New camera features, increased performance, and a significantly redesigned display design demonstrate that Apple intends to take a clear step forward with the iPhone 18 Pro.
The first concrete rumors about the iPhone 18 Pro paint a picture of an iPhone that will be technically upgraded despite the known display dimensions. The leaks come from several well-known sources: Chinese leaker Digital Chat Station , display analyst Ross Young , renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo , leaker Jukanlosreve , and publications such as The Information and DigiTimes . All together, they provide a very concrete picture of what's planned for 2026.
Display sizes remain the same, technology behind them changes
According to current information, the iPhone 18 Pro will again have a 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max will remain at 6.9 inches. This means Apple is continuing with the dimensions already used in the current iPhone 16 Pro models, which will also remain unchanged for the iPhone 17 Pro. However, the display won't simply be carried over. According to leaks, Apple plans to relocate the Face ID technology completely beneath the display. This will remove the previously visible sensor surface, leaving only a small opening for the front camera. This camera opening will not be located in the center, but in the upper left corner. The previous pill-shaped notch will therefore be eliminated. Whether the Dynamic Island will continue to exist is unclear.
New camera with variable aperture and new sensor
Another major upgrade concerns the main camera. The 48-megapixel camera on the back is said to be equipped with a variable aperture. Instead of the currently fixed f/1.78 aperture, you would then be able to manually adjust the aperture size – this would primarily affect the depth of field in photos and provide more flexibility in exposure. Additionally, according to DigiTimes, Apple may use a new camera sensor from Samsung for the first time. This three-layer stacked sensor (called "PD-TR Logic") is said to provide better response times, less image noise, and improved dynamic range. Until now, Apple has exclusively used sensors from Sony for its main cameras.
More RAM for Apple Intelligence and multitasking
A significant jump in RAM is also expected: Instead of 8 GB as in the iPhone 16 series, the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to have 12 GB of RAM. This would be a significant upgrade, which should be particularly noticeable in complex applications, multitasking, and the upcoming features related to Apple Intelligence. Initial indications of this can already be found in the specifications of the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Air, both of which are also expected to be equipped with 12 GB.
Faster modem for better connection
In terms of connectivity, Apple plans to use the new C2 modem, according to analyst Jeff Pu. This will be the successor to the current C1 modem and will feature improved efficiency, higher speed, and support for mmWave technology in the US. This means faster mobile data connections and better stability for you—especially in regions with modern 5G infrastructure.
New A20 Pro chip with 2nm technology
Inside will be the new A20 Pro processor. This chip is based on TSMC's 2nm manufacturing process. Compared to the 3nm technology of the current A19 (which is expected to be used in the iPhone 17), the A20 is expected to deliver around 15 percent more performance while operating around 30 percent more efficiently. This could directly translate into better battery life and more power reserves for demanding tasks.
iPhone 18 Pro: Classic format, new technology
Even though the iPhone 18 Pro features familiar display sizes on the outside, there will be many changes beneath the surface. The new under-display Face ID, the minimal camera position in the left corner, a more flexible camera with a variable aperture, the new sensor, more RAM, an improved modem, and the 2nm chip clearly show that Apple is taking the device to a new level of technology. If you're looking for an iPhone that combines classic dimensions with cutting-edge technology, the iPhone 18 Pro might be of interest to you. (Image: Shutterstock / Dontree_M)
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