The iPhone 17 series just hit shelves on September 19, 2025, but whispers about the iPhone 18 series are already stealing the spotlight. Set to launch around September 2026, the iPhone 18 lineup—rumored to include the iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Air 2—promises game-changing upgrades.
From a sleeker design to a powerful A20 Pro chip and a groundbreaking camera, here’s why the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are worth the wait. Let’s dive into the leaks and see what Apple has in store!
iPhone 18 Series: What’s Coming?
Early leaks suggest the iPhone 18 series will shake up Apple’s ecosystem. The lineup may feature four models: the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a refreshed iPhone Air 2. Expect major upgrades in performance, cameras, and design, making these phones a big leap over the iPhone 17 series. If you’re not upgrading this year, these leaks might convince you to hold off for 2026.
A20 Pro Chip: Next-Level Performance
Faster and More Efficient
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to pack the A20 Pro chip, built on a cutting-edge 2nm process. This chip promises a significant boost in speed and power efficiency, perfect for demanding tasks like gaming and on-device AI. According to MacRumors, the A20 Pro will include an upgraded C2 modem for faster 5G connectivity and better battery life, ensuring a smoother experience.
Camera Upgrades: Variable Aperture Magic
Pro-Level Photography
Apple is set to revolutionize iPhone photography with a variable aperture 48MP main camera on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, per analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. This feature, inspired by Samsung, lets users manually adjust light intake, offering better control over depth of field and low-light shots. Whether you’re shooting portraits or nighttime scenes, this upgrade could make the iPhone 18 Pro a photographer’s dream.
Sleeker Design: Under-Display Face ID
Smaller Dynamic Island
The iPhone 18 series may finally move Face ID sensors under the display, shrinking the Dynamic Island to just a camera cutout, as reported by The Information. This design, common in Android phones, frees up screen space for a more immersive interface. The result? A cleaner, less intrusive look that maximizes your viewing experience.
iPhone 18 Series Launch Strategy
Unlike the iPhone 17’s unified launch, Apple may split the iPhone 18 rollout. Leaks from MacRumors suggest the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and Air 2 will debut in September 2026, positioning them as Apple’s premium offerings. The standard iPhone 18 and a new iPhone 18e, aimed at budget buyers, could follow in March 2027 to boost sales early in the financial year.
Key Rumored Features of iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Chip | A20 Pro (2nm process), C2 modem |
| Camera | 48MP main with variable aperture, triple-lens system |
| Display | OLED with under-display Face ID, smaller Dynamic Island |
| Launch | Pro, Pro Max, Air 2: September 2026; iPhone 18, 18e: March 2027 |
| Expected Price | Starting at ~₹1,39,900 (Pro), ~₹1,54,900 (Pro Max) |
Note: Prices are estimated based on iPhone 17 Pro pricing (₹1,34,900) and typical year-over-year increases.
Should You Wait for the iPhone 18 Series?
If you’re considering the iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max (starting at ₹1,34,900 and ₹1,49,900), the iPhone 18’s rumored upgrades might tempt you to wait. The variable aperture camera, A20 Pro chip, and sleeker design could justify the delay, especially for photography buffs and tech enthusiasts. However, check Flipkart’s Big Billion Days Sale (starting September 23, 2025) for iPhone 17 deals if you need a phone sooner.
FAQs About iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Leaks
What’s new in the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max?
They’re expected to feature an A20 Pro chip, a 48MP variable aperture camera, and under-display Face ID for a smaller Dynamic Island.
When will the iPhone 18 series launch?
The Pro, Pro Max, and Air 2 are slated for September 2026, with the iPhone 18 and 18e following in March 2027, per leaks.
How will the iPhone 18 camera improve?
A variable aperture 48MP main camera will offer better control over light and depth of field, ideal for photos and videos.
Will the iPhone 18 Pro be more expensive?
Likely, with estimated starting prices of ₹1,39,900 (Pro) and ₹1,54,900 (Pro Max), based on current trends.
Should I skip the iPhone 17 for the iPhone 18?
If you want cutting-edge features like a variable aperture camera and under-display Face ID, waiting for the iPhone 18 could be worth it.