iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max: The 10 Biggest Leaks and Rumors You Need to Know

So, here we are in 2026, summer is almost in the rear-view mirror, and that can only mean one thing: Apple season is right around the corner. A brand-new iPhone is coming, and more importantly, a brand-new iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are nearly here.

Today, we’re breaking down the top 10 leaks and rumors surrounding Apple’s next-generation Pro iPhones—everything from design tweaks and display changes to massive camera upgrades and next-level connectivity. If you’re thinking about upgrading later this year, this is the stuff you need to know.

So, without wasting any time, let’s jump straight in.

1. A Smaller Dynamic Island (But It’s Not Going Anywhere)

Let’s start right at the front of the phone.

There’s been a lot of noise recently about changes to the Dynamic Island and the front-facing camera. Some early rumors suggested Apple might shift the selfie camera to the corner of the display, but more recent and reliable leaks have shut that down.

Instead, Face ID and the front camera are still centered, just like before. The big difference?

The Dynamic Island itself is shrinking.

That’s right—same placement, same functionality, but a noticeably smaller footprint, which already feels like a win.

2. Under-Display Face ID Technology Is Finally Happening

This smaller Dynamic Island ties directly into the second big leak.

Apple is reportedly hiding part of the Face ID system under the display for the first time. By working with advanced LTPO display tech—possibly with help from Samsung—Apple has figured out how to place some Face ID sensors beneath the screen itself.

What does that mean in real-world use?

• Less obstruction when watching videos
• A cleaner, more immersive display
• Dynamic Island still expands when needed

It’s subtle, but it’s one of those changes you’ll notice every single day.

3. Familiar Design, Slightly Thicker Body

If you liked the look of the iPhone 17 Pro, you’re in luck.

Apple isn’t reinventing the wheel here. The overall design of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max is staying largely the same. However, there is one small physical change:

the phones are expected to be about half a millimeter thicker.

That might sound disappointing—until you hear why.

4. Bigger Battery, Better Battery Life

That extra thickness isn’t accidental.

Apple is using the additional space to pack in a larger battery, which should translate directly into better battery life across the board. We’re not talking about a radical redesign, but even modest battery gains on a Pro iPhone are always welcome.

More power, longer days, fewer panic charges. Simple as that.

5. Three Brand-New Pro Colors (And Some Old Ones Are Gone)

Now let’s talk colors—because this year, Apple is mixing things up.

Leaks suggest we’re getting three new Pro colors:

• A deep burgundy-style red
• A warm beige / coffee-inspired tone
• A lighter, softer purple (somewhere between past Pro purple and standard iPhone shades)

The flip side?

Several familiar colors appear to be disappearing entirely—silver, orange, blue, and even black may not return this time around.

Apple seems to be going all-in on a fresh Pro palette, which is a bold move.

6. Variable Aperture Comes to the Main Camera

This is where things start getting really exciting.

For the first time ever on an iPhone, Apple is expected to introduce a variable aperture on the main camera sensor.

In simple terms, the lens can physically open and close:

• Bright environment? The aperture tightens to reduce overexposure
• Low light? It opens wider to let more light in
• Better control over depth of field and focus

This isn’t just a spec bump—it’s a massive leap in photographic flexibility.

7. A Brand-New Main Camera Sensor

Alongside the variable aperture, Apple is reportedly introducing an entirely new main camera sensor.

Even more interesting?

This time, Apple may be working with Samsung instead of Sony, which would be a major shift.

There’s speculation around a potential 200-megapixel sensor, but nothing is confirmed just yet. What is clear is that the Pro camera system is due for a major overhaul—especially since the 48MP sensor has stuck around for several generations now.

This could be the biggest camera upgrade we’ve seen in years.

8. A Redesigned Capture Button

Remember the capture button Apple introduced on earlier models?

That button is getting a refresh.

Leaks suggest the current version is expensive and difficult to manufacture, so Apple is developing a new type of sensor-based button that’s easier to replace and cheaper to produce.

The design and feel may change slightly, but the goal is long-term durability and efficiency.

9. Apple’s Own C2 Communication Chip

Here’s a big internal change.

Instead of relying on Qualcomm, Apple is expected to debut its own C2 communication chip inside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup.

This follows the absence of Apple’s C-series chips in the iPhone 17 Pro models and marks the first time a Pro iPhone gets Apple’s next-gen custom modem.

The benefits?

• Better efficiency
• Improved signal handling
• Potential battery life gains

And that leads perfectly into the next upgrade.

10. Full Satellite Data Connectivity Anywhere

This might be the most exciting rumor of all.

Beyond emergency SOS, Apple is reportedly bringing full satellite data connectivity to the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. That means browsing the web, sending messages, and staying connected—even when you’re nowhere near cellular coverage.

Jungle? Desert? Middle of the ocean?

As long as you can see the sky, you’re online.

If true, this would completely redefine what “always connected” means for a smartphone.

The A20 Pro Chip Ties It All Together

Powering all of this is Apple’s upcoming A20 Pro chip, built on a cutting-edge 2-nanometer process by TSMC.

Compared to previous generations, this means:

• More performance
• Better power efficiency
• Smaller, denser transistors

Yes, it could generate more heat—but Apple’s vapor chamber cooling system, introduced with the iPhone 17 Pro lineup, should handle that without issue.

Final Thoughts: Should You Be Excited?

Honestly? Yes.

From a smaller Dynamic Island and under-display Face ID to massive camera upgrades, satellite connectivity, and Apple’s own modem tech, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are shaping up to be one of the biggest Pro updates in years.