The Apple iPhone 17 series has already made waves globally with its sleek new design, upgraded camera setup, and the long-awaited 120Hz refresh rate on the standard model. But it seems Apple isn’t slowing down anytime soon. According to latest reports, the upcoming iPhone 18 series could bring even bigger changes, from a new design and performance upgrades to the company’s first-ever foldable iPhone. Here’s everything we know so far about what’s next for Apple’s flagship lineup.
iPhone 18 Series Design And Specifications (Leaked)
Leaks are already flooding the web, hinting that Apple might be ready to refresh the look of its Pro models. As per tipster Digital Chat Station on Weibo, the iPhone 18 Pro Max could get a variable aperture system and a new 48-megapixel periscope telephoto lens with a wider aperture, a move that could massively improve low-light photography.
Adding to that, Apple might experiment with a semi-transparent back panel on the Pro models, offering users a peek at components like the MagSafe coils, something we’ve never seen on an iPhone before.
The standard iPhone 18, on the other hand, is rumoured to feature the all-new A20 Bionic chip, built on a 2nm process, which could make it even faster and more power-efficient than the A19 chip powering the iPhone 17 series.
While major design overhauls are likely reserved for the Pro models, Apple isn’t expected to make drastic display changes across the lineup. The iPhone 18 might retain a 6.3-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, the same panel seen on its predecessor.
iPhone 18 Series Launch Timeline (Expected)
According to early leaks, Apple might unveil the iPhone 18 Pro series, iPhone 18 Air, and iPhone 18 Fold in September 2026. The base iPhone 18 and a more affordable iPhone 18e are said to release in early 2027.
Regarding price, reports suggests Apple will not hike prices for the next cycle. This could place the starting price of the base iPhone 18 around Rs 82,900 in India, mirroring the iPhone 17. The Pro and Pro Max versions are also expected to be priced in line with their predecessors.
A20 Chip Performance: What Sets The iPhone 18 Apart
The standout feature of the iPhone 18 lineup is Apple’s first-ever 2nm chip fabrication process. According to leaks from Weibo’s Mobile Phone Chip Expert, the standard iPhone 18 will pack the A20 chip (codenamed ‘Borneo’), while the Pro models and the rumored foldable iPhone will feature the more powerful A20 Pro (codenamed ‘Borneo Ultra’). This is a significant leap from the current A19’s 3nm process found in the iPhone 17 series. The 2nm node promises snappier multitasking, improved power efficiency, longer battery life, and enhanced AI processing—putting Apple ahead of competitors like Samsung’s Exynos 2600 and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips that are still on 3nm.
Enhanced AI And Increased RAM Across All Models
One of the most exciting upgrades for the iPhone 18 series is the expected RAM boost. Reports from South Korean outlet The Bell suggest that Apple’s supplier Samsung has been asked to increase production of 12GB RAM modules. This means the base iPhone 18 will likely match the Pro models with 12GB of RAM—a 50% jump from the iPhone 17’s 8GB. More RAM translates to better performance for Apple Intelligence features, smoother multitasking, and enhanced on-device AI capabilities. This upgrade alone puts the iPhone 18 on par with flagship Android devices, which have offered 12GB RAM for years.
Revolutionary Camera Upgrades For Pro Models
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to receive major camera upgrades that will set them apart from Android competitors. Most notably, the main camera is rumored to feature a variable aperture system—a first for iPhones—that will automatically adjust based on lighting conditions. This technology, already present in some Android flagships, allows for better depth of field control and improved low-light performance. Additionally, the 48-megapixel periscope telephoto lens with a wider aperture will elevate zoom photography to new heights, making the iPhone 18 Pro Max a serious contender for the best camera phone title.
Display And Design Evolution: Thinner Bezels And Under-Display Face ID
After years of waiting, the iPhone 18 Pro series might finally introduce under-display Face ID technology, according to display analyst Ross Young. This would allow for ultra-thin bezels and a truly edge-to-edge display with just a small punch-hole for the selfie camera, eliminating the infamous notch that has defined iPhones since the iPhone X. Combined with redesigned rear glass featuring thinner bezels on Pro models, the iPhone 18 Pro could be Apple’s most significant aesthetic shift in years. The redesigned glass back may also feature a semi-transparent finish that reveals internal components like MagSafe coils—a bold design choice that sets it apart from any smartphone currently available.