This article may contain affiliate links. Learn more on our Partner Program page.
With the introduction of the iPhone 17 series, Apple has once again demonstrated how consistently it is evolving its smartphone portfolio. But attention is already turning to the future. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to launch in 2026 with several features that could represent a significant step forward. Initial reports from industry analysts and tech media provide clues as to what Apple is planning for the next generation.
The iPhone 17 models are still very new on the market, but as usual, analysts are already focusing on their successors. While the current lineup brings new chips, camera improvements, and design tweaks, the iPhone 18 Pro models could feature technologies that have only been speculated about so far. Particular attention is being paid to an under-display Face ID, a variable aperture camera, and the new A20 Pro chip using the 2nm process.
Face ID under the display on the iPhone 18 Pro
One of the most discussed topics concerns Face ID. As early as 2023, display analyst Ross Young presented a roadmap that envisioned the integration of Face ID under the display for the iPhone 17 Pro. He later revised his forecast to 2026. However, there are now clear signs that Apple could indeed use this technology in the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. By positioning the sensors in the display, the dynamic island would be smaller, creating more usable screen space. The Information portal also reported in May 2025 that the iPhone 18 Pro models would very likely feature Face ID under the display.
Camera with variable aperture
The camera has always been one of the most important selling points of any iPhone. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo expects the iPhone 18 Pro to be equipped with a 48-megapixel Fusion main camera, which will offer a variable aperture for the first time. So far, models from the iPhone 14 Pro to the iPhone 17 Pro have used a fixed aperture of f/1.78. A variable aperture would allow the amount of light reaching the sensor to be controlled. This would make it possible to create more flexible depth of field and distinguish subjects more clearly from the background. Whether this feature makes a significant difference due to the small sensor size of an iPhone remains to be seen. It is notable that Bloomberg's Mark Gurman mistakenly referred to a "variable aperture system" in the iPhone 17 Pro. This could indicate that Apple is indeed working on this technology but will not introduce it until the iPhone 18.
More performance thanks to the A20 Pro chip
Under the hood, the iPhone 18 Pro could make a significant leap. The new A20 Pro chip is expected to be manufactured for the first time using TSMC's 2nm process. This process promises noticeable improvements in performance and energy efficiency. Additionally, a new C2 modem, developed by Apple itself and particularly energy-efficient, is expected to be used. This could benefit both battery life and the stability of cellular connections.
iPhone 18 Pro as the next big technological leap
Following the release of the iPhone 17 series, attention is already turning to the iPhone 18 Pro. Rumors of an under-display Face ID, a variable aperture camera, and the new 2nm A20 Pro chip indicate that Apple will once again equip the next generation with significant innovations. So, if you're hesitant about buying the iPhone 17 Pro, the iPhone 18 Pro might just have the features that make a real difference. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
- AirPods Pro 3: Surprise discovered in battery life
- iPhone 17: Differences between A19 and A19 Pro
- iPhone Air weight: Comparison of all current Apple models
- iPhone 17: Apple brings significantly longer battery life
- iPhone 17: Apple introduces groundbreaking security feature
- iPhone 17: Dual Capture Video now directly in the Camera app
- macOS 26 brings repair assistant for calibration & parts
- iPhone Air with C1X modem – faster, more efficient, better
- iPhone 17 Pro uses aluminum – all the reasons in detail
- iPhone 17: N1 chip, more RAM and battery life at a glance
- High blood pressure warnings coming to older Apple Watch models
- AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 get live translation feature
- MagSafe battery exclusively for iPhone Air – iPhone 17 runs out of power
- New iPhone accessories 2025: cases, bumpers and crossbody
- Final Cut Camera 2.0: All new features at a glance
- iPhone Air battery life: Comparison with iPhone 17 and predecessors
- iPhone 17: There is no longer a SIM slot in these countries
- Apple Watch Series 11: All new features at a glance
- iPhone 17 Pro: New design, A19 Pro chip and 8x zoom
- iPhone Air: The thinnest iPhone with all-day battery life
- iPhone 17 with Center Stage camera and A19 chip introduced
- Apple Watch SE 3 unveiled: Price, features, and availability
- Apple Watch Ultra 3: Innovation meets sustainability
- AirPods Pro 3: Apple's new top model for wireless audio
