We are still almost a year out from the launch of the iPhone 18 series, but leaks and rumors are piling up fast. While the regular iPhone 18 might not arrive until spring 2027, the Pro models – including the high-end iPhone 18 Pro Max – are expected to stick to Apple’s usual September schedule.
Even though the iPhone 17 Pro Max got a solid design refresh and some meaningful upgrades, the next Pro Max looks like it is set to push things even further. So, let's break down everything we’ve heard so far.
In plain terms, this means speed and efficiency. Early whispers suggest the A20 could be up to 15% faster than the A19 while using around 30% less power. Shorter transistors make the chip run cooler, so the phone won’t heat up as much, and your battery will last longer. Essentially, you get a faster, cooler, longer-lasting iPhone – which is exactly the kind of upgrade we all love.
Apple’s custom C2 modem goes all-in on 5G
Rumor confidence: High
Apple is reportedly working on a C2 modem, the successor to the C1 that appeared in the iPhone 16 series. This next-gen 5G chip could debut with the iPhone 18 and aims to fully cut Apple’s reliance on Qualcomm.
Expect improvements in mmWave support, faster carrier aggregation, and better power efficiency. The goal is smoother downloads, more reliable connectivity, and a phone that’s less of a battery drain while handling heavy 5G usage.
Camera Control button may disappear
Rumor confidence: Medium
The Camera Control button, introduced on the iPhone 16, might not make it to the iPhone 18. Reports suggest Apple could remove it because user engagement was lower than expected, and the feature didn’t justify its production costs.
So while it was hyped as a big innovation, Apple might decide the cost-to-benefit ratio isn’t worth keeping it. This is a reminder that not every new feature sticks — especially if people don’t actually use it.
Next-gen LTPO+ displays for smoother visuals
Rumor confidence: Medium
The Pro and Pro Max models are rumored to get LTPO+ displays, which should allow for higher refresh rates while being kinder on battery life. Users can expect smoother scrolling, more fluid animations, and less battery drain at the same time.
This design tweak would showcase Apple’s vapor chamber cooling system introduced with the iPhone 17 Pro. It’s a small peek under the hood, giving a techy, futuristic vibe while hinting at the advanced cooling improvements inside.
Hole-punch or smaller Dynamic Island?
Rumor confidence: High
This is how the iPhone 18 Pro Max display might look like. | AI-generated image
This gives more creative control over depth of field, letting you adjust how sharp subjects appear against the background – a big step forward for mobile photography enthusiasts.
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Tsveta, a passionate technology enthusiast and accomplished playwright, combines her love for mobile technologies and writing to explore and reveal the transformative power of tech. From being an early follower of PhoneArena to relying exclusively on her smartphone for photography, she embraces the immense capabilities of compact devices in our daily lives. With a Journalism degree and an explorative spirit, Tsveta not only provides expert insights into the world of gadgets and smartphones but also shares a unique perspective shaped by her diverse interests in travel, culture, and visual storytelling.
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