Apple’s upcoming flagship smartphone, the iPhone 18 Pro, is already creating strong buzz even though its official launch is still more than a year away. Fresh leaks suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro series could be one of the biggest upgrades in recent years, bringing a redesigned display, set a powerful new A20 Pro chipset, and advanced camera hardware. Interestingly, reports also indicate that Apple may change its traditional launch strategy by introducing a split release timeline for the iPhone 18 lineup.
According to multiple industry sources, Apple is planning something special for its 2026 flagship models, especially the Pro variants.
Split Launch Strategy: A Big Change from Apple
Traditionally, Apple launches all iPhone models together in September. However, leaks now suggest that the company could adopt a split launch strategy for the iPhone 18 series. As per the information, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max may arrive first in September 2026, while the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and the next-generation iPhone Air could be pushed to early 2027.
This shift may help Apple focus on premium buyers first and better manage production of its advanced components, especially the new 2nm chipset.
iPhone 18 Pro Display: Under-Display Tech Replaces Dynamic Island
One of the most exciting iPhone 18 Pro leaks is related to the display. The current Dynamic Island could be replaced by a new under-display system, making the front screen look more seamless and futuristic.
The screen sizes are expected to remain similar to the iPhone 17 Pro lineup:
- iPhone 18 Pro: 6.27-inch OLED, 120Hz ProMotion
- iPhone 18 Pro Max: 6.86-inch OLED, 120Hz ProMotion
With the under-display area, Apple could move Face ID sensors and possibly the front camera beneath the panel, delivering a near full-screen experience for the first time on an iPhone.
A20 Pro Chip: Apple’s First 2nm Processor
Performance is expected to take a massive leap with the new A20 Pro chip. The iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to be powered by Apple’s first 2-nanometer processor, making it one of the most advanced mobile chips in the world.
The A20 Pro will reportedly use Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) packaging, which allows multiple components to be integrated more efficiently. This technology is expected to deliver:
- Higher performance for gaming and AI tasks
- Better battery efficiency
- Improved thermal management
- Faster image and video processing
This upgrade could make the iPhone 18 Pro a leader in mobile performance, especially for creators, gamers, and power users.
Mechanical Iris Camera: A DSLR-Like Feature
Camera improvements are another major highlight in the leaks. The iPhone 18 Pro models may feature a mechanical iris in at least one rear camera. This is a hardware-level upgrade that allows variable aperture control, similar to professional cameras.
Benefits of a mechanical iris include:
- Better exposure control in bright and low light
- Natural depth-of-field (real background blur, not just software)
- Reduced dependence on heavy image processing
- More cinematic photography and videography
If Apple implements this successfully, it could be one of the most significant camera innovations in iPhone history.
iPhone 18 Pro Launch Date in India
Based on Apple’s usual release cycle and current leaks, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expecting to launch in India in September 2026. The standard iPhone 18 lineup, including iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e, may follow in early 2027 if the split launch strategy becomes reality.
Expected Price of iPhone 18 Pro in India
Pricing leaks suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro could start at around:
- iPhone 18 Pro:- ₹1,34,900
- iPhone 18 Pro Max:- ₹1,49,900
Final prices will depend on storage variants ,updated performance and any additional features Apple introduces. With cutting-edge technology like a 2nm chip and mechanical camera hardware, premium pricing is expected.
Conclusion
The iPhone 18 Pro is shaping up to be a landmark upgrade for Apple. From a redesigned front with under-display technology to the powerful A20 Pro 2nm chipset and a professional-grade mechanical iris camera, the upcoming Pro models could redefine smartphone standards.
If the split launch strategy is confirmed, it will mark a major change in Apple’s release pattern, giving the Pro lineup a dedicated spotlight. With advanced performance, improved photography, and a futuristic design, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max could easily become the most anticipated smartphones of 2026.
By
