Apple’s upcoming Apple iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models are shaping up to deliver one of the most dramatic design changes in years. This is according to emerging industry leaks.
Reports suggest Apple plans to introduce under-display Face ID across the iPhone 18 lineup. As a result, this change would move the TrueDepth camera system beneath the screen. This placement allows facial recognition hardware to function without the pill-shaped cutout currently used for the Dynamic Island on Pro models.
The TrueDepth system is critical to Face ID. It projects thousands of invisible dots onto a user’s face, analyses depth data, and captures an infrared image to create a secure facial map. By placing the system beneath the display, Apple could achieve a cleaner, more immersive screen design.
New Leak Reveals iPhone 18 Pro Display Sizes, Under-Screen Face ID, and More https://t.co/FvAJA4c6VK pic.twitter.com/cPZXJk2GQc
— MacRumors.com (@MacRumors) January 14, 2026Early leaks suggest the front-facing camera may still be visible through a small hole-punch. However, unlike current models, the camera cutout is expected to be positioned in the top-left corner of the display rather than at the centre. This would increase usable screen space. It may also divide opinions on overall aesthetics.
Beyond design, the iPhone 18 Pro models are also expected to receive substantial internal upgrades. Apple is rumoured to debut its next-generation A20 Pro chip, built using TSMC’s advanced 2-nanometre process. The new chip is expected to deliver significant gains in performance and power efficiency.
Apple may also take a major strategic step by introducing its first in-house cellular modem, potentially named C1X or C2. If confirmed, this would reduce or end Apple’s long-standing reliance on Qualcomm for modem technology.
Camera improvements are also part of the rumours. The iPhone 18 Pro could feature a variable-aperture system to enhance photography across different lighting conditions. Reports also suggest a slightly thicker chassis to support a larger battery, which may translate into improved battery life.
Display sizes are expected to remain premium, with 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch options, both supporting a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals. Apple may also refresh its colour palette. As a result, shades such as burgundy or coffee brown are under consideration.
Apple traditionally unveils its flagship iPhones in September. However, analysts continue to speculate about a possible split-launch strategy for the iPhone 18 series. The company has not confirmed any change to its release cycle.
If these leaks prove accurate, the iPhone 18 Pro could mark Apple’s most significant iPhone redesign since the introduction of Face ID. It would combine visual refinement with major performance and hardware upgrades.
