Apple is expected to release the iPhone 18 Pro later this year as its most premium smartphone offering. While current reports suggest major design changes are unlikely, a latest leak hints at a potential upgrade for the front-facing camera. According to Chinese leaker WhyLab, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max could feature new 24MP selfie cameras. However, it’s important to note that the source frames this as a possibility rather than a concrete piece of information and should be treated with caution.
This speculation arrives as Apple continues to refine its iPhone camera technology. The iPhone 17 series already introduced improved 18MP front-facing cameras, a step up from the 12MP sensors found in previous models. A jump to 24MP would represent another significant increase in resolution, potentially offering greater detail and improved low-light performance in selfies and video calls. The potential upgrade to the front camera is just one piece of the puzzle as anticipation builds for the iPhone 18 series.
Alongside the potential camera improvements, it’s almost certain that the iPhone 18 Pro models will feature smaller Dynamic Island cutouts. This comes after earlier reports suggested a possible under-display camera or even a hole-punch design, but those more radical changes appear to be further down the line. The Dynamic Island, introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro, has turn into a signature feature, and refining its size could offer a more immersive viewing experience.
iPhone 18 Pro: What We Know So Far
The iPhone 18 Pro is anticipated to arrive in September 2026, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro Max and potentially a foldable iPhone, according to reports from Apple Scoop. The standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e models are expected to follow in spring 2027. Apple is reportedly adopting a two-phase release cycle for the iPhone 18 series, a shift from its traditional September launch for all models.
Under the hood, the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to be powered by Apple’s A20 chip, built on TSMC’s 2nm process. This next-generation silicon promises significant improvements in both performance and power efficiency. The A20 will utilize WMCM packaging, further enhancing its capabilities. A larger battery is also anticipated, with some leaks suggesting a capacity between 5,100 and 5,200 mAh for the iPhone 18 Pro Max, as reported by Forbes.
Design-wise, the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to maintain a similar aesthetic to the iPhone 17 Pro, including the raised camera plateau on the rear. However, Apple is reportedly working on improving the color matching between the Ceramic Shield glass and the aluminum frame for a more seamless look. A “slightly transparent” ceramic-shield section around the rear charging zone on Pro models has also been rumored, potentially hinting at revised coil design, according to Apple Scoop.
Potential Camera Enhancements
While the 24MP selfie camera remains unconfirmed, Apple has been consistently improving its camera technology across the iPhone lineup. The iPhone 18 Pro is also expected to feature aperture upgrades and a C2 5G modem. The company recently pushed 48MP sensors across its entire iPhone 17 line, suggesting a focus on image quality, and detail.
The potential for a higher-resolution front-facing camera aligns with the growing demand for high-quality selfies and video conferencing. A 24MP sensor could offer greater flexibility for cropping and editing, as well as improved performance in challenging lighting conditions. However, it’s important to remember that megapixels aren’t everything; software processing and sensor size also play crucial roles in image quality.
What to Expect Next
As the September 2026 launch date approaches, more concrete information about the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to emerge. Apple typically keeps its upcoming products tightly under wraps, but leaks and rumors will likely continue to provide glimpses into the company’s plans. The focus will be on confirming the specifications of the A20 chip, the details of the camera upgrades, and any potential design changes. The introduction of 5G satellite internet on the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and foldable iPhone is also a key development to watch, as noted by MacRumors.
What are your thoughts on the potential iPhone 18 Pro upgrades? Share your expectations and opinions in the comments below!