New dummy models of the iPhone 18 Pro Max suggest a noticeably thicker camera platform and more protruding lenses. The images, courtesy of Max Tech, show for the first time the extent of the camera design changes – despite the lack of rumors about visible design upgrades.
Following the initial dummy comparisons of the iPhone Ultra with the iPad mini and iPhone 17 Pro Max, Vadim Yuryev from the YouTube channel Max Tech has now provided further dummy models – this time of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. The images reveal a significant design change on the back: The camera unit appears noticeably thicker than its predecessor, and the black glass cover protrudes further. This is interesting news for iPhone fans, as previous rumors of a camera upgrade hadn't suggested such substantial design changes.
Dummy models are produced in the factories of accessory manufacturers, who need to manufacture compatible cases early on. The information comes from Apple's supply chain – and is generally quite reliable. If both Pro models now show a thicker camera unit, the final product is likely to have this design change as well.
This is clearly visible
Yuryev describes the changes using direct comparison images to the iPhone 17 Pro. Three things are particularly noticeable:
- The camera platform is thicker: The rectangular unit on the back, which contains the three cameras, the microphone and the LiDAR sensor, protrudes noticeably more from the casing.
- The lenses protrude further: Within the plateau, the glass covers of the individual cameras extend further out of the black housing.
- Visually, the camera element appears more dominant: Together, this results in a camera system that looks significantly more massive than the iPhone 17 Pro.
For users with cases, this means that existing iPhone 17 Pro cases will not fit the iPhone 18 Pro. Anyone planning to buy one and already looking for accessories should wait – compatible cases for the new model will only be available at launch.
Why the camera unit is getting thicker
The increased thickness isn't just a design gimmick. According to recent reports, Apple is planning several substantial camera upgrades that require additional space. The four-stage plan for iPhone camera upgrades starts with the iPhone 18 Pro and includes, among other things:
- The variable aperture: For the first time, the main camera features a mechanically adjustable iris mechanism. This requires more height than a fixed aperture.
- An upgraded telephoto camera: The telephoto unit is to be upgraded to 48 megapixels, with a longer focal length and a larger aperture.
- Improved sensors: Larger sensor areas and new image stabilization require more volume within the camera unit.
Each of these upgrades requires physical space. If Apple wants to fit several of them into a single Pro model, the camera platform will inevitably become thicker. This isn't a challenge unique to Apple—every smartphone manufacturer that improves its cameras eventually has to choose between a thinner body and a better camera.
The contrast to the iPhone Ultra
The contrast to the iPhone Ultra, which was unveiled at the same time, is particularly interesting. There, Apple has apparently chosen the opposite compromise: The foldable iPhone is extremely thin – rumored to be at least 1.1 millimeters thinner than the iPhone Air – and therefore forgoes a telephoto camera. The result: Only two rear cameras (main and ultra-wide), but a very compact design.
The iPhone 18 Pro takes the opposite approach. Maximum camera quality with all features – and a noticeably larger camera unit to achieve this. This is a clear positioning: The iPhone Ultra is the lifestyle flagship, the iPhone 18 Pro remains the camera flagship.
iPhone 18 Pro: What Apple users can expect
The dummy images should be interpreted with caution. They accurately depict the external shape of the final product, but they don't reveal the specific camera specifications. Apple could still remove or postpone individual planned features if production problems arise.
One thing is clear: the iPhone 18 Pro will look different from its predecessor. The new colors, including Dark Cherry, and the significantly redesigned camera unit make the model noticeably distinct. Anyone who owns an iPhone 17 Pro will immediately recognize the difference – a rarity in recent iPhone history, where generations have often been barely distinguishable visually.
Apple expects the final unveiling in September 2026. Until then, more dummy images and supply chain leaks are likely to surface, further confirming or refining the design. For a complete overview of all previous leaks and rumors about the iPhone 18 Pro, you can find a continuously updated summary of all rumors here. (Image: Shutterstock / Anna Hoychuk)
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