Sunday, 18 January 2026| Dubai, UAE [Posted at 9:34 pm| Updated on 8 February 2026 on 11:42 am ]
Apple’s next-generation flagship lineup is already generating buzz in the UAE, as fresh leaks around the Apple iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18, and the long-rumoured iPhone Fold phone hint at one of the biggest upgrades in recent years. However, Apple has not confirmed anything officially. Many reports paint an exciting picture of where the iPhone is headed next.
Apple iPhone 18 Pro: Smaller Cutout, Big Visual Change
A leaked video suggests that Apple is finally considering a redesign of the iPhone’s front. The familiar pill-shaped cutout could shrink significantly because some Face ID components are moving under the display.
Key front design highlights:
- Punch-hole cutout instead of the large pill
- Selfie camera shifted to the top-left corner
- Dynamic Island stays, but moves to the top-left and becomes less intrusive
- Cleaner, more immersive full-screen experience
For long-time iPhone users in the UAE, it could be the most noticeable design change in years.
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Camera Upgrades: Variable Aperture and Better Controls
On the back, the iPhone 18 Pro could introduce a more meaningful camera upgrade than recent generations.
Expected camera features:
- Triple 48MP camera setup
- Main camera with variable aperture
- Periscope telephoto lens
- Ultra-wide lens
- More natural portrait shots
- Improved low-light photography without heavy software processing
- New pressure-based camera button for better tactile feedback
According to leaks, the variable aperture system may be exclusive to the iPhone 18 Pro Max. Apple could divide the camera focus between these two models.
Read more – iPhone 18 Pro Leaks; Under-Screen Face ID and Major Design Changes Revealed
A20 Pro Chip: Performance Meets Efficiency
Internally, Apple is expected to make a major leap with the A20 Pro chip. Reportedly, it would be built on TSMC’s advanced 2nm process.
Performance expectations:
- Up to 15% faster performance
- Around 30% better power efficiency
- RAM integrated directly onto the processor (WMCM packaging)
- Smoother Apple Intelligence and AI-powered features
- Improved thermal management
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to feature 12GB RAM, making them future-ready for AI-heavy tasks.
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Battery, Modem and Build Changes
The latest leaks suggest the iPhone 18 Pro Max will have a bigger battery than the current model. It could last for over 40 hours on a single charge.
- Pro Max battery tipped at around 5,100mAh.
- Apple’s in-house C2 modem may debut, reducing reliance on third-party suppliers
- Titanium mixed with aluminium for a lighter, more durable frame
- Sapphire-reinforced rear glass for added protection
New Colours and Launch Timeline
Apple might finally move away from its muted Pro colours.
Leaked colour options:
- Burgundy
- Brown
- Purple
As per leaks, iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max could launch in September 2026. However, the standard iPhone 18 is likely to be released in Spring 2027.
iPhone Fold: Apple’s Foldable Ambitions
Alongside the Pro models, Apple is expected to introduce its first foldable phone called the iPhone Fold.
Leaked iPhone Fold specs:
- 7.8-inch main foldable display
- 5.3-inch cover screen
- Touch ID returns, replacing Face ID
- Dual 48MP rear cameras
- 18MP selfie cameras on both screens
- 12GB LPDDR5 RAM
- Apple C2 modem
If these leaks are accurate, the Apple iPhone Fold phone could compete directly with premium foldables, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, which is already popular in the UAE.
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Key Takeaways
These details are based on early leaks and should be taken cautiously. Yet, the Apple iPhone 18 Pro lineup looks set to focus on refinement, performance, and cleaner design, rather than radical reinvention. Combined with the arrival of the iPhone Fold, 2026 could be a defining year for Apple’s smartphone strategy.
FAQs
1. When will the Apple iPhone 18 Pro launch?
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to launch in September 2026.
2. Will Dynamic Island be removed on iPhone 18 Pro?
No. Dynamic Island is expected to stay, but move to the top-left corner and become smaller.
3. What chip will power the iPhone 18 Pro?
Leaks suggest the new A20 Pro chip is built on a 2nm process.
4. Is Apple really launching an iPhone Fold?
Reports strongly suggest Apple will debut its first foldable phone, possibly alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models.
5. Will the iPhone 18 Pro be available in new colours?
Yes, leaked colours include burgundy, brown, and purple.
