- Arrival of the A20 Pro chip manufactured in 2 nanometers for a massive leap in efficiency and power.
- Photographic revolution with the implementation of mechanical variable aperture in the Pro models.
- Reduction in the size of the Dynamic Island thanks to sensors hidden under the glass.
- Split launch strategy between September 2026 and Spring 2027.
Anticipation for Apple's next steps is already at its peak. Although we still have months to wait before the Cupertino company reveals its hand, leaks from the supply chain are already allowing us to draw a fairly detailed picture of what the iPhone 18 and its variants will be like . This isn't just a routine update, but a paradigm shift that promises to shake up the foundations of mobile hardware.
The most striking thing about this generation is that Apple seems to want to break with its usual release schedule. We won't see a single launch; instead, the family will be divided into two stages , with the more powerful models and a possible foldable phone as the main attractions this fall, while the entry-level model will be delayed until the following spring. Let's analyze every detail so you don't miss anything about this generational leap.
Models and launch strategy
This time, the lineup would be structured into four distinct paths: the standard model, the Pro version, the Pro Max, and the second-generation iPhone Air. However, the surprise lies in the timeline. The iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max , and the highly anticipated foldable iPhone are expected to arrive on the market in September 2026 , leaving the iPhone 18 and possibly the iPhone 18e for spring 2027, specifically between February and March.
This new rollout would allow Apple to maintain public interest for longer and give absolute prominence to the Pro lineup . The foldable iPhone, meanwhile, is envisioned as a book-like device with a 5,5-inch external screen and a 7,8-inch internal screen, using a liquid metal hinge to minimize the crease and opting for Touch ID instead of Face ID due to the complexity of the chassis.
Screen design and evolution
In terms of aesthetics, the Pro models won't undergo a radical transformation, maintaining the aluminum structure but with even thinner bezels . The real change lies in the front. Apple has been working on a micro-transparent glass that allows the dot emitter and Face ID infrared sensor to be hidden beneath the panel. Thanks to this innovation, the Dynamic Island would be reduced by approximately 25% , going from the current 20,06 mm to around 14,98 mm.
Screen sizes would remain the same: the iPhone 18 and Pro would have 6,3-inch displays, the Air 6,5 inches, and the Pro Max would reach 6,9 inches. The major technological highlight would be the implementation of LTPO+ panels with a 120Hz refresh rate , allowing for much more precise light control and reduced energy consumption, thus extending battery life for everyday use.
Regarding colors, it seems Apple wants to return to bold hues. While deep red might be out, rumors suggest the arrival of a burgundy, light blue (similar to Sierra Blue) , silver, and the return of classic black. Other reports even mention a cherry shade with lilac undertones or a chocolate brown to give the premium line a more sophisticated feel.
The brain of the device: A20 chip and RAM
The biggest leap forward is on the inside. The Pro models will debut the A20 Pro chip, manufactured using a 2-nanometer process by TSMC. This manufacturing process allows for more transistors to be packed into less space, resulting in 15% higher performance and 30% improved energy efficiency. To avoid bottlenecks, Apple will use WMCM (Wafer Level Multi Chip Module) technology , integrating the RAM directly onto the processor wafer.
Speaking of memory, the entire range will see a significant leap forward to support the demands of artificial intelligence. All models are expected to have at least 12 GB of unified memory , with some Pro versions even reaching 16 GB. This is crucial for Siri, now powered by Google Gemini and Apple Intelligence models , to function with complete fluidity and without lag.
Cameras with variable aperture and connectivity
Photography would be the main selling point of this generation. The star innovation is the mechanical variable aperture on the main camera (f/1.4 to f/2.4), allowing physical control of light and background blur, something previously exclusive to DSLR cameras. Furthermore, the Pro models would incorporate a new Samsung triple-layer stacked image sensor , which reduces digital noise and improves dynamic range.
The telephoto lens would also receive an improved aperture to capture more light, and the front camera would be upgraded to 24 megapixels , improving selfie quality compared to the previous 18 MP. All this photographic hardware would make the camera module protrude slightly more than on the iPhone 17, but in return, we would gain the most powerful versatility in the brand's history.
In the communications sector, Apple's C2 modem would arrive . This chip would not only improve compatibility with 5G mmWave, but would also introduce support for the NR NTN standard, enabling full satellite internet in areas without traditional coverage, taking satellite connectivity far beyond simple emergency calls.
Battery, Software and Prices
To power all this, the iPhone 18 Pro Max could feature a battery between 5.100 and 5.200 mAh . Thanks to the efficiency of the 2nm chip, battery life should be record-breaking. All of this would be coordinated by iOS 27 , the new operating system expected to be unveiled at WWDC in June 2026, which will include a completely redesigned and smarter Siri.
Regarding the price, Apple faces a dilemma because the 2nm process is 50% more expensive. However, it's believed the company will prefer to absorb part of the cost to avoid alienating customers. The base prices for the 256GB models could remain the same: the iPhone 18 starting at €950-€1.000 , the Pro at €1.319, and the Pro Max at €1.469. However, it's very likely that the 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB versions will see a significant price increase.
Apple's new smartphone lineup is presented as a well-rounded package where the variable aperture camera, the 2nm processor, and the reduced Dynamic Island are the cornerstones. With a phased rollout beginning in September 2026 and concluding in spring 2027, the brand aims to maximize its market impact while introducing disruptive innovations in satellite connectivity and RAM to dominate the AI era.