- The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are likely to feature minor refinements rather than a major redesign.
- The new models are rumored to include a variable aperture camera system, Apple’s next-generation A20 chip, and a custom C2 modem.
- Apple’s anticipated foldable iPhone may become the main highlight of the company’s fall launch event, potentially overshadowing the Pro models.
Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to bring incremental improvements instead of dramatic upgrades, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Gurman reports that the new Pro models will likely prioritize internal enhancements and performance gains over a major redesign.
A familiar update cycle
Gurman describes the iPhone 18 Pro lineup as offering “minor tweaks” compared to the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. He compared the expected update strategy to Apple’s earlier “S” cycle releases, such as the iPhone 6s and iPhone XS, which focused on refining performance, cameras, and internal technology rather than introducing sweeping changes.
Internal improvements could still be significant
Even if the exterior remains familiar, the iPhone 18 Pro models are rumored to include several meaningful hardware upgrades:
- Variable aperture camera system: This feature could allow more control over light intake and depth, improving low-light performance and portrait photography.
- A20 chip: Apple’s next-generation processor is expected to deliver faster performance and improved energy efficiency.
- Custom C2 modem: A new Apple-designed modem may enhance connectivity, network performance, and battery life.
While these changes may not be immediately visible, they could noticeably improve everyday performance and photography capabilities.
Foldable iPhone may steal the spotlight
Gurman also noted that the iPhone 18 Pro models may not be the main attraction at Apple’s fall launch event. Instead, Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone could take center stage if the company introduces it this year.
Apple has not officially confirmed a foldable device. However, multiple industry analysts and supply chain reports suggest the company has been developing foldable display technology for several years. If unveiled, a foldable iPhone would represent one of Apple’s most significant hardware design shifts in recent history.
Refinement as part of Apple’s long-term strategy
Apple has often alternated between major redesigns and incremental upgrades. Notably, refinement-focused releases help the company to improve performance, reliability, and efficiency while maintaining a familiar user experience.
However, even in the absence of a striking new design, features like speed, battery life, and camera performance can be alluring to many customers, particularly those upgrading from older models.
Anyway, Apple has not officially confirmed any of these details, and additional information will likely emerge as the anticipated launch window approaches.
