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Apple may introduce under-display Face ID, reducing reliance on Dynamic Island hardware.
Variable aperture cameras could significantly improve low-light photography and natural background blur.
A20 Pro chip may boost AI performance, efficiency, and real-time image processing capabilities.
Apple’s long-term redesign plans for iPhone are starting to surface, and early leaks around iPhone 18 Pro suggest one of the most remarkable visual changes in recent years. Although the new model is still more than a year away, reports suggest Apple may finally introduce under-display Face ID with major camera upgrades.
If the latest leaks are true, these changes could change how Apple balances design, security, and photography in its premium handsets.
Several sources indicate that Apple is developing a hidden Face ID system for the iPhone 18 Pro series. It means that the core TrueDepth sensors would be mounted under the display glass, thus minimizing the area where the screen has to be cut out for the sensors to work.
Dynamic Island is currently used in iPhones to accommodate Face ID components and the front camera. With this new technology, Apple would be able to create a more unobtrusive front design. A camera at the front might still be present, according to some rumors, while others suggest Apple is experimenting with different configurations.
The shift would be a major engineering milestone. Face ID relies on infrared sensors, dot projectors, and flood illuminators, all of which struggle with display interference. Apple has reportedly spent years choosing the right display materials and refining sensor placement to preserve accuracy and security.
If implemented, the Dynamic Island may not disappear entirely. Instead, Apple could retain it as a software-driven feature rather than a physical necessity.
Also Read: Apple to Debut Hidden Face ID Feature with iPhone 18 Release?
Camera improvements form the second pillar of iPhone 18 Pro leaks. According to reports, Apple has advanced camera technology that is being tested and will offer better low-light performance and depth control.
A variable aperture system for the primary rear camera is one of the most notable updates. Hence, the lens would be able to control light reaching the sensor, thus enhancing night photography and enabling more natural background blur without relying too much on software processing.
Moreover, there are rumors regarding an enhancement in the quality of telephoto and computational photography. Apple continues to prioritise consistent colour science and video stability, areas where iPhones already perform strongly.
For creators, these upgrades could translate into better cinematic video, improved portrait shots, and more flexibility across lighting conditions.
iPhone 18 Pro will likely launch with the next-gen A-series processor, popularly known as A20 Pro. Given that the information is scant, there are still speculations that the chip will be manufactured using a cutting-edge technology that is not currently in use.
All these developments may result in a device with lower energy consumption, improved heat distribution, and superior performance for AI development. One of the key areas where Apple has slowly shifted its focus is machine learning, and it is now expanding into areas such as photography, voice processing, and privacy-preserving AI features.
Thanks to the close alignment of hardware and software, the iPhone 18 Pro may go deeper into real-time image processing and smart battery management.
Leaks also hint at subtle design refinements. These include slimmer bezels, possible changes to selfie camera placement, and new colour options to differentiate the Pro lineup.
Apple appears cautious with its redesign approach. Instead of a sudden overhaul, the company is focused on incremental but meaningful changes that improve usability without affecting familiarity.
Experts believe that Apple will launch iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models in September 2026, based on the company’s usual annual calendar. The tech giant is experimenting with different release dates, and the standard iPhone 18 series may not be available by early 2027.
Also Read: Apple iPhone 18 Camera May Feature Next-Generation Samsung Image Sensors
If the iPhone 18 Pro is launched with under-display Face ID, it would mean that Apple is confident in its evolving display and sensor technologies. The upcoming model, equipped with enhanced camera and chip technologies, would be the start of a slow transition to a user-friendly and iPhone-centric experience that is mostly screen-based.
As it is with every piece of information that comes out, the specifics may change. However, a trend is evident: Apple is going for a sleeker design, more intelligent cameras, and better hardware integration for the next premium smartphone lineup.
FAQ 1: Will iPhone 18 Pro definitely feature under-display Face ID?
Leaks suggest Apple is testing under-display Face ID, but final implementation depends on accuracy, security benchmarks, and production readiness before the 2026 launch.
FAQ 2: Does under-display Face ID mean Dynamic Island will disappear completely?
Not necessarily. Apple may retain Dynamic Island as a software feature, even if physical sensor cutouts are reduced significantly on iPhone 18 Pro models.
FAQ 3: What camera upgrades are expected on the iPhone 18 Pro?
Reports point to a variable aperture main camera, improved low-light performance, enhanced telephoto quality, and more advanced computational photography features.
FAQ 4: What processor will power the iPhone 18 Pro?
iPhone 18 Pro is expected to run on the A20 Pro chip, focusing on efficiency, AI workloads, thermal control, and real-time image processing.
FAQ 5: When is Apple likely to launch the iPhone 18 Pro?
Industry watchers expect Apple to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro in September 2026, while standard iPhone 18 models may arrive later.
