Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are expected in September 2026 with under-screen Face ID, A20 Pro Chip, camera upgrades, and premium pricing.
Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are expected in September 2026 [Photo: X]
Apple is gearing up for one of its biggest smartphone launches in years with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max scheduled for a September 2026 debut. After reports hinted at changes to Apple’s typical release schedule, these premium models are shaping up to arrive ahead of the standard iPhone 18, which could launch in early 2027 instead.
The staggered rollout marks a shift in Apple’s hardware calendar and builds fresh excitement among fans eager for major upgrades.
Apple traditionally unveils its high‑end phones in September, and multiple leaks point to the same timeline for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. Industry sources and analysts expect Apple to host its annual fall event in late September 2026, when the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and possibly a new iPhone Fold could be announced together.
Unlike past years, the standard iPhone 18 may be delayed until spring 2027, potentially paired with other models like the iPhone 18 Air 2. This staggered approach gives Apple more room to spotlight its premium phones without crowding the market in a single season.
While Apple hasn’t confirmed prices, early estimates suggest the iPhone 18 Pro may start around $1,099 (about ₹90,000–₹95,000 in India), with the iPhone 18 Pro Max near $1,199 (roughly ₹1,00,000–₹1,05,000).
These figures align with pricing trends for Apple’s recent Pro models, even as production costs rise due to advanced chips and display tech. Higher storage variants and special configurations could push prices further, especially in regions with import taxes and local duties.
The iPhone 18 Pro series is expected to bring visible changes to the front design. Leaks suggest Apple may finally introduce under‑screen Face ID technology, placing the TrueDepth sensor beneath the display and reducing the need for the traditional Dynamic Island cutout. The front camera could shift to a top‑left punch‑hole design, offering a cleaner screen experience.
Despite these shifts, the overall display sizes, around 6.3 inches for the Pro and 6.9 inches for the Pro Max, could remain similar to the current generation. Upgraded LTPO+ panels may improve refresh rates, power efficiency, and battery life.
Under the hood, the iPhone 18 Pro lineup is expected to run on Apple’s next‑generation A20 Pro chipset, fabricated using a 2 nm process. This advanced chip could deliver substantial gains in performance and energy efficiency compared with previous models.
Apple may also use Wafer‑Level Multi‑Chip Module (WMCM) packaging to integrate memory and processing elements more tightly, potentially boosting speed and thermal control.
Camera upgrades are a key part of the iPhone 18 series story. Rumours indicate Apple could introduce variable aperture lenses, which let users control light intake more precisely for improved photography in various conditions. These features could be particularly notable on the Pro Max model.
In addition to performance and imaging upgrades, leaks suggest new colour options such as burgundy, brown, and purple, giving Apple’s premium phones fresh visual appeal.
Apple appears to be diverging from its traditional single‑event release for all models. Instead, it may launch high‑end Pro models at the usual autumn event, while delaying standard iPhone editions until spring 2027. Analysts say this strategy could help Apple spread demand throughout the year and maximise attention for each set of devices.
For Apple fans and tech buyers, the iPhone 18 Pro series promises a blend of design refinement, performance boosts, and camera innovations. The potential shift to under‑screen Face ID and a more immersive display reflects Apple’s long‑term push toward cleaner front designs.
With the premium models launching first, buyers may see a clearer distinction between Apple’s high‑end and standard offerings. The staggered release also gives consumers more options throughout 2026 and into 2027, with the Pro line arriving ahead of base models.
