iPhone 18 Pro Rumors: Under-Display Face ID and Major Camera Upgrades Expected
The upcoming iPhone 18 Pro could bring some of the most significant design and hardware changes in years. Recent reports suggest that Apple plans to introduce under-display Face ID sensors, a relocated selfie camera, and a ground-breaking variable aperture for the rear camera system.
These details primarily stem from renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, alongside reports from MacRumors and The Information. While Kuo often provides broad insights, these latest leaks offer a much more specific look at Apple’s 2026 flagship strategy.
A Familiar Design with a Hidden Front Interface
Industry experts expect the overall body of the iPhone 18 Pro to mirror the iPhone 17 Pro. This follows Apple’s traditional “two-year cycle,” where they maintain a specific chassis design before making major structural changes. However, the real transformation is happening behind the glass.
The most exciting rumor involves the removal of the current pill-shaped cutout. Apple is reportedly working to hide the Face ID components—specifically the infrared (IR) flood illuminator—beneath the display pixels.
What Happens to the Dynamic Island?
Currently, Apple uses the Dynamic Island to blend hardware cutouts with software activities. If Apple successfully moves Face ID under the screen, the large “island” might shrink significantly or disappear entirely.
Some reports suggest the selfie camera will move to a small hole-punch cutout in the top-left corner. If this happens, Apple may ditch the Dynamic Island in favor of a new notification system that prioritizes a more immersive, all-screen experience.
The Challenge of Under-Display Technology
Moving Face ID under the screen isn’t easy. While other manufacturers have tried under-display cameras, they often struggle with image blur or visible display distortion.
However, Apple’s Face ID relies on infrared light rather than visible light. Since IR can pass through display layers more effectively than standard light, Apple might hide the sensors without sacrificing the high security that users expect from biometric identification.
Rear Camera: The Move to Variable Aperture
Beyond the screen, the iPhone 18 Pro may feature a variable aperture on its main 48MP Fusion camera. This hardware-based control would allow the lens to physically expand or contract, similar to a professional DSLR camera.
Why Does Variable Aperture Matter?
Currently, iPhones use a fixed aperture (like the f/1.78 on the iPhone 17 Pro). A variable aperture would provide two major benefits:
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Light Control: Users can open the aperture in low light to capture more detail or narrow it in bright sunlight to prevent overexposure.
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Depth of Field: It allows for physical control over “bokeh” (background blur). Instead of relying solely on digital processing, the camera can naturally blur the background for portraits or keep the entire landscape in sharp focus.
Potential Drawbacks
While this is a “Pro” feature, it could add complexity. Samsung experimented with a dual-aperture system on the Galaxy S9 but eventually dropped it. Apple will need to ensure the system is durable and easy for “point-and-shoot” users to manage.
Performance and Power: The A20 Pro Chip
Under the hood, the iPhone 18 Pro will likely debut the A20 Pro processor. This chip is expected to use TSMC’s 2nm process, making it faster and more energy-efficient than any previous model. Combined with a rumored 5,200mAh battery for the Pro Max, the 2026 lineup could set new records for iPhone battery life.
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in September 2026
