An iPhone 18 Pro design leak suggests the device will feature:  

• A smaller front cutout  

• Camera enhancements  

• Apple’s new A20 Pro chip  

Below is a summary of the primary innovations and changes revealed in the iPhone 18 Pro design leak.  

A recent iPhone 18 Pro video leak, shared by John Prosser (the source) of Front Page Tech, claims to reveal the full design and key hardware details of the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro. The video showcases possible changes to the display, camera system, internal components, a smaller cutout explained, and color options.  

iPhone 18 Pro Leaked in a Video Reveals Full Design and Specs 

The most significant change appears on the front: while Apple has used a pill-shaped cutout for several generations, the leaked renders indicate a smaller cutout on the iPhone 18 Pro. The video suggests some Face ID components may move under the display, reducing the visible cutout to a single hole. The selfie camera is shown in the top left corner of the screen rather than in the center, along with some port and button changes indicating a significant visual shift for long-time users.  

Dynamic Island will remain but move with the front camera to the top-left corner. This update aims to make it less intrusive while keeping familiar animations and live activities. Dynamic Island should take up less space and be less noticeable during use.  

The iPhone 18 Pro may receive a significant camera upgrade. The leak indicates that Apple is testing a variable-aperture system for the main camera (unlike current models, which rely on software for background blur and handling challenging lighting). A variable aperture would allow the lens to control light intake, likely boosting portrait quality and low-light performance. However, this feature may be limited to the iPhone 18 Pro Max model.  

The leak also notes possible refinements to physical controls. Apple may replace the current capacitive camera button with a pressure-based version, offering more reliable tactile feedback for photos and videos.  

Internally, the iPhone 18 Pro series is expected to make major improvements. Both the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models are rumored to use Apple’s next-generation A20 Pro chip, which may be built on TSMC’s upcoming 2nm processor. Additionally, Apple is reportedly planning to integrate RAM directly into the same wafer as the CPU/GPU and neural engine. This would be especially important for on-device AI features under Apple Intelligence. Better thermal management is also a potential gain, and the space saved inside the phone would allow Apple to either increase battery size or improve cooling. Early estimates point to around 15% better performance and up to 30% higher efficiency. Compared with the previous generation, though, these numbers should be treated cautiously for now.  

Apple may introduce its C2 modem, reducing reliance on third-party supplies. The iPhone 18 Pro cutout could be the first to use it.  

Information on the battery’s size is incomplete.  

• The iPhone 18 Pro cutout may have a 6.3-inch display.  

• The Pro Plus could get a larger 5100 mAh battery.  

• Standard Pro battery details are unconfirmed.  

The video mentions three new finishes: burgundy, brown, and purple. These colors differ from Apple’s muted Pro palette and may add personality to the lineup.  

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Plus are expected to launch in September 2026. The standard iPhone 18 may follow in 2027, but this is unconfirmed. These details are based on early leaks and could change before release.  

What Camera Feature Leaks Have Emerged For The iPhone 18 Pro Max? 

Recent leaks suggest the iPhone 18 Pro Max may feature a variable aperture system for its main camera. With this innovation, the lens could adjust its light intake, producing more natural portraits and improving low-light photography without relying solely on software processing.  

Along with the variable-aperture system, the leak suggests Apple may introduce a redesigned camera button with a pressure-based mechanism. The report also notes potential changes, such as a smaller front cut-out and other design updates. Notably, the variable aperture could be exclusive to the iPhone 18 Pro Max. If this is confirmed, it may mark Apple’s most significant camera hardware advancement in recent generations.  

Why is Apple shifting to the C2 modem in the iPhone 18 Pro? 

Apple is reportedly adopting its C2 modem in the iPhone 18 Pro to better integrate hardware and software, reduce reliance on outside suppliers, and optimize device-specific connectivity. Apple expects improved performance, efficiency, and further differentiation for its flagship phones.  

Reports say the C2 modem is a major step in Apple’s vertical design strategy, building on custom chipsets. Integrating the C2 modem with the A20 Pro chip could boost battery life and enable features like next-gen MagSafe and improved AI. Analysts say this helps manage supply chains and speed up innovation.  

While focus is on hardware, the iPhone 18’s screen specs appear unchanged from the iPhone 17. Design differences vs. the iPhone 17 Pro are non-existent. The addition of an iPhone Air 2 in the iPhone 18 lineup is notable. Previous reports indicated that the iPhone Air sold fewer units than other iPhone 17 models.  

The latest leak offers no updates on the anticipated foldable iPhone, which is still expected to launch alongside the iPhone 18 lineup.  

Additional iPhone-related leaks are likely as Apple’s annual event approaches. New updates could clarify what to expect from the iPhone 18 lineup and what may remain unchanged.