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iPhone 18 Pro Leaks: Five Big Upgrades That Could Change Apple’s Flagship In 2026

  • 19.03.2025 17:54
  • msn.com
  • Keywords: AI, Apple

The iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to feature under-screen Face ID, a variable aperture camera for better control, Samsung's advanced three-layer sensor, an Apple C2 modem for faster connectivity, and improved AI with the A20 Pro chip. These upgrades suggest significant advancements in photography, performance, and user experience.

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Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

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Analyst rating: Buy

Apple's AI capabilities are expected to improve with the A20 Pro chip, enhancing their market position in smartphones.

Qualcomm

Qualcomm

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Analyst rating: Buy

Apple is moving away from Qualcomm modems, which could impact Qualcomm's revenue and market share.

Context

Business Insights and Market Implications of iPhone 18 Pro Leaks

Key Features and Upgrades

  • Under-Screen Face ID: Potential debut in 2026, enabling seamless design and smaller Dynamic Island.
  • Variable Aperture Camera: 48MP Fusion camera with adjustable aperture for improved depth of field control.
  • Samsung’s Three-Layer Sensor: Advanced PD-TR-Logic sensor for reduced noise and enhanced dynamic range.
  • Apple C2 Modem: Expected to offer faster connectivity, mmWave support, and improved power efficiency.
  • A20 Pro Chip: Built on TSMC’s 3nm process with potential AI enhancements via CoWoS packaging.

Market Impact and Industry Implications

1. Design and User Experience

  • The integration of under-screen Face ID could redefine smartphone design, offering a cleaner aesthetic while maintaining security.
  • A smaller Dynamic Island may appeal to premium users seeking minimalistic designs, potentially increasing iPhone’s market share in the high-end segment.

2. Camera Innovation

  • Variable aperture technology positions Apple as a leader in camera innovation, differentiating it from competitors like Samsung and Google.
  • Collaboration with Samsung for advanced sensors could strengthen Apple’s supply chain resilience and technological edge.

3. Connectivity and Performance

  • Transition to Apple’s custom C2 modem reduces reliance on Qualcomm, enhancing control over 5G technology and potentially improving global market penetration.
  • Enhanced AI capabilities via the A20 Pro chip may drive smarter, more efficient devices, appealing to tech-savvy users.

4. Competitive Dynamics

  • Samsung’s involvement in supplying advanced sensors could intensify competition in the camera component market, pressuring Sony and other suppliers.
  • Apple’s shift to in-house modems may prompt Android manufacturers to accelerate their own modem development efforts.

5. Long-Term Effects and Strategic Considerations

  • These upgrades reinforce Apple’s premium positioning, potentially driving higher average selling prices (ASPs) for the iPhone lineup.
  • The focus on AI and connectivity aligns with broader industry trends, ensuring Apple remains competitive in emerging markets like smart home integration and autonomous systems.

6. Regulatory and Supply Chain Implications

  • Adoption of mmWave 5G could face regulatory hurdles or deployment delays in certain regions, impacting global availability.
  • Reliance on TSMC for advanced chip manufacturing may expose Apple to supply chain risks, though diversification efforts are likely underway.

Conclusion

The rumored features of the iPhone 18 Pro suggest a strategic push by Apple to maintain its leadership in innovation and premium smartphone markets. These upgrades could redefine user expectations, intensify competition, and set new benchmarks for device performance and design.