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Although the iPhone 18 Pro isn't expected until 2026, there are already plenty of rumors about its technical innovations. Analysts and industry insiders have released initial details suggesting that Apple is planning some major changes. These include a new Face ID design, an improved camera with a variable aperture, and a more powerful processor. A proprietary Apple modem is also expected to make the iPhone 18 Pro faster and more efficient.
Every year, Apple launches new iPhone models with minor or major improvements. Some updates are rather subtle, while others deliver genuine innovations. The iPhone 18 Pro could see major advances in several areas. Particularly interesting are the planned under-display Face ID, the variable aperture in the main camera, and the new chip technology that may place even greater emphasis on artificial intelligence. The following overview shows the most important rumors and what they could mean for everyday use.
Face ID under the display – Less notch, more display
Since introducing Face ID in 2017, Apple has been working on the technology to make it more efficient and less noticeable. The notch has already been reduced with the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 14 Pro. The iPhone 18 Pro will have Face ID installed directly below the display, which could further shrink the notch. However, it is still unclear whether Apple will find a completely invisible solution or whether there will be a small pinhole cutout for the front camera. Some Android devices, such as the Google Pixel 9 and the Samsung Galaxy S25, already use similar designs. If Apple succeeds in fully integrating Face ID into the display, it would be a significant step towards a nearly bezel-less iPhone.
Variable aperture for the main camera – More control over photos
Another rumor concerns the iPhone 18 Pro's camera. Apple could incorporate a variable aperture into the 48-megapixel main camera. While current models operate with a fixed aperture of f/1.78, a variable aperture would allow for individual adjustment of the amount of light. This offers several advantages. In bright light, the aperture can be closed to achieve a greater depth of field. In low-light conditions, it can be opened wider to allow more light onto the sensor and thus reduce noise. However, smartphone cameras are limited in depth due to their small sensors, so the usefulness of this feature is still unclear.
New Samsung image sensor – competition for Sony
Until now, Apple has relied almost exclusively on Sony image sensors. This could change with the iPhone 18 Pro. Samsung is reportedly currently developing a triple-layer, stacked camera sensor that should provide better image quality. This technology is intended to reduce image noise, increase dynamic range, and make the camera faster overall. A switch from Sony to Samsung would be a major change for Apple, given its long-standing collaboration with Sony. Whether and to what extent the new technology will impact photo quality remains to be seen.
C2 modem – Apple's next level of independence from Qualcomm
Apple has been working for years to become independent of Qualcomm modems. The first step was the C1 modem in the iPhone 16e. The C2 modem could then be used in the iPhone 18 Pro. The new modem is expected to be not only faster but also more energy-efficient. In the US, it will also offer mmWave support, which is particularly relevant for 5G users. With the C2 modem, Apple is advancing its plans to develop its own modems and become independent of suppliers in the long term.
A20 Pro chip – More performance and Apple Intelligence
The A20 Pro chip is expected to be manufactured using TSMC's third-generation 3nm manufacturing process. Initially, there were rumors of a 2nm process, but experts now expect Apple to stick with 3nm for the time being. Nevertheless, the A20 Pro could bring some interesting innovations. The chip is expected to be more powerful, especially in conjunction with Apple Intelligence. Thanks to CoWoS (Chip on Wafer on Substrate) technology, the processor, memory, and Neural Engine could work even more closely together. This could lead to improvements in speed and energy efficiency and perhaps also enable new AI features.
iPhone 18 Pro: The most important rumors at a glance
The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to bring a number of exciting innovations. Under-display Face ID, a variable aperture, a new image sensor, Apple's proprietary C2 modem, and the A20 Pro chip could make the device one of the most advanced iPhones yet. Whether the wait is worth it depends on how important these innovations are to you. If you're hoping for a major camera upgrade or an edge-to-edge display, the iPhone 18 Pro could offer just that. One thing is certain: Apple will equip the iPhone 18 Pro with interesting innovations. There will be many more rumors until the official launch. It remains exciting to see which features actually arrive and how Apple implements them. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Ellsy S)
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