Tag: iPhone 18

  • iPhone 18 and 18 Pro: Smaller Dynamic Island, No Under-Display Face ID

    iPhone 18 and 18 Pro: Smaller Dynamic Island, No Under-Display Face ID

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 18 may introduce a new pressure-sensitive button for camera control and could replace the standard model with an iPhone Air.
    2. Rumors suggest the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro will not have under-display Face ID or front camera, but will maintain a smaller Dynamic Island for Face ID sensors.
    3. The front camera might be repositioned as a punch hole, differing from earlier expectations.
    4. The pill-shaped cutout design may continue with the iPhone 19 series and the 20th-anniversary model could feature no visible holes.
    5. Setsuna Digital has a mixed track record for leaks but has previously provided accurate information about Apple products.


    The iPhone 17 series has just been released, yet people are already looking ahead to what Apple has planned for 2026.

    In recent months, there has been a flow of rumors regarding the iPhone 18. Some sources suggest that Apple might add a new pressure-sensitive button for camera control and may even alter the existing lineup. This could mean replacing the standard model with an iPhone Air, which would join the Pro, Pro Max, and a potential foldable iPhone.

    Latest Rumors from a Trusted Source

    A new rumor has emerged from Setsuna Digital, a well-known leaker on the Chinese platform Weibo. According to MacRumors, this leaker claims that the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro will not feature an under-display Face ID or an under-display front camera, as previously thought. Instead, it seems Apple is focusing on a smaller Dynamic Island that will contain the Face ID sensors. The front camera might have a separate placement, possibly as a punch hole, as earlier suggested. How Apple will manage to fit both components remains unclear.

    Future Design Speculations

    If these rumors are accurate, the pill-shaped cutout will continue for at least one more generation, likely appearing with the iPhone 19 series and the expected 20th-anniversary model, which is rumored to feature a design with no visible holes.

    Setsuna Digital has a history of leaking accurate information, such as details about the vapor chamber heat spreader in the iPhone 17, which was revealed around the same time last year. However, it’s worth noting that this account has also made several errors in the past. Regardless, there’s a strong possibility that Apple will revamp the front display over the next two iPhone generations.

    Setsuna Digital on Weibo via MacRumors, Photo by Omar Al-Ghosson on Unsplash

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  • Apple May Skip iPhone 18 Launch in 2026, Rumors Suggest

    Apple May Skip iPhone 18 Launch in 2026, Rumors Suggest

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 17 series in September 2025.
    2. The current Plus model may be replaced with a new Air version in the lineup.
    3. There will likely be no standard iPhone 18 released in 2026.
    4. An entry-level iPhone 17e is set to launch in spring 2026.
    5. The new lineup for 2026 may include a Pro, Pro Max, Air, and a foldable phone.


    Apple is likely to announce the iPhone 17 series in September 2025, and recent reports indicate some significant changes in the line-up. The current Plus model will probably be substituted with a new Air version, and looking ahead to 2026, another report suggests that there won’t be a standard iPhone 18.

    New Lineup Details

    This information comes from ETNews, which cites sources within the industry. The Korean news outlet mentions that Apple is not intending to launch a standard iPhone 18 in 2026. Instead, the proposed line-up for 2026 is expected to include the Air, Pro, Pro Max, and a foldable phone, marking a first for the company.

    The Entry-Level Model

    Instead of a standard iPhone 18, the company is anticipated to introduce the iPhone 17e in spring 2026, which will serve as the entry-level model for that year. Furthermore, ETNews claims that the basic iPhone 18 will debut alongside the 18e in spring 2027, with newer foldable and high-end models to follow later.

    It’s important to note that this isn’t the first instance of the base iPhone 18 being reported as absent from the 2026 launch, as earlier rumors from various sources have indicated similar outcomes. This reshaped launch timeline seems to be aimed at enhancing the sales of Pro models, and it is thought to be a strategic decision to boost overall iPhone sales during the first half of the year.

    Confusion Ahead?

    Nonetheless, it remains to be seen whether or not these strategies, if Apple truly intends to implement them, will create confusion among consumers in 2026 and in subsequent years.

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  • Apple iPhone 18: Samsung Camera Sensors Amid Trump Tariffs

    Apple iPhone 18: Samsung Camera Sensors Amid Trump Tariffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. President Trump announced a future 100% tariff on chip imports, prompting Apple to adapt its supply chain.
    2. Apple will produce all glass covers for iPhones and Apple Watches in the United States to seek tariff exemptions.
    3. Samsung will manufacture camera sensors in Texas for the upcoming iPhone 18, marking a shift from Sony as Apple’s supplier.
    4. The new camera sensors will feature advanced stacked image technology and will be used in the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro.
    5. Apple plans a $600 billion investment to relocate parts of its supply chain to the US, although advanced components like displays and processors will still be sourced elsewhere.


    On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump declared that a 100% tariff would be imposed on chip imports in the future. To get an exemption from this, Apple has announced that all glass covers for iPhones and Apple Watches sold globally will be produced in the United States. As reported by the Financial Times, Apple is also set to use camera sensors made in the US by Samsung Semiconductor, beginning with the iPhone 18.

    Samsung’s Innovations

    Samsung’s factory located in Texas will use cutting-edge chip manufacturing technology, though Apple hasn’t shared any detailed information yet. According to the Financial Times, Samsung is expected to produce stacked image sensors featuring three layers. These sensors will make their first appearance in the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro. This marks a significant change, as it will be the first time Apple will not use camera sensors from Sony, which were previously made at a TSMC facility in Japan.

    Investment in Local Manufacturing

    These new camera sensors are part of a larger strategy involving a $600 billion investment to shift parts of the iPhone supply chain back to the US, aiming to dodge tariffs set by the Trump administration. Apple stresses that components produced in the US will be utilized in iPhones sold all over the world. However, it’s important to note that there are no current plans to manufacture some of the more advanced and costly components of an iPhone, like the display or the processor, within the US.

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  • Foldable iPhone Expected in September 2026, Says JPMorgan

    Foldable iPhone Expected in September 2026, Says JPMorgan

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple may unveil a foldable iPhone, referred to as the iFold, in September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18.
    2. The expected starting price for the foldable iPhone is $1999.
    3. JPMorgan predicts the folding iPhone could achieve about 45 million sales in the two years following its launch.
    4. Rumored features include a 7.5-inch inner display, a 5.5-inch outer display, an A20 chip, and possibly Face ID or Touch ID.
    5. Current information is speculative, and the exact timeline and features are not confirmed by Apple.


    It’s been a long time people have been guessing whether Apple will drop a folding iPhone, and every time it seems like it’s just around the corner. But some new research from JPMorgan says that next year, Apple might finally unveil a foldable iPhone.

    Upcoming Launch Details

    In a message to investors, the market experts suggested that this foldable iPhone (often called the iFold by some) could debut with the iPhone 18 in September 2026. They also mentioned that the starting price for this foldable device will be $1999.

    Sales Expectations

    The researchers are even hinting that the folding iPhone could rake in about 45 million sales in the two years after its anticipated launch. Given that the whole foldables market sold around 18 million units last year, Apple could hit the jackpot if JPMorgan’s forecasts come to life.

    Speculations on Features

    There’s a buzz going around with supposed specs of the folding iPhone, with most rumors suggesting an inner display of roughly 7.5 inches diagonally and an outer display of about 5.5 inches. It’s expected to feature the same SoC as the iPhone 18 (probably powered by an A20 chip, following Apple’s naming pattern) along with common features like Face ID (or maybe Touch ID, according to some whispers) and a modified version of iOS designed for a folding phone.

    Conclusion

    However, it’s essential to remember that this is merely speculation at this stage, so it’s wise to remain skeptical. While it’s likely that Apple will step into the folding phone arena due to its rising popularity, only the tech giant from Cupertino knows exactly when this will happen.

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  • Apple iPhone Redesign Leak: Under-Display Face ID Planned for 2026

    Apple iPhone Redesign Leak: Under-Display Face ID Planned for 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has maintained a similar design for its iPhone Pro models, featuring a square camera setup, but is expected to introduce significant redesigns for upcoming models.

    2. The iPhone 17 series will have a notable change in its rear design, shifting from a square camera module to a large rectangular camera arrangement.

    3. The iPhone 18, expected in 2026, may feature a punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera and have Face ID located beneath the display.

    4. The iPhone 19, anticipated for 2027, is rumored to have both the selfie camera and Face ID under the screen, resulting in a notch-free design.

    5. The information about these design changes is based on leaks and is not officially confirmed, so it should be viewed with caution.


    Apple has kept a similar design style for its iPhone Pro models across multiple generations, featuring a square camera setup on the back. Yet, the tech company is likely to introduce a significant redesign for its upcoming iPhone models.

    Expected Design Changes

    A recent leak from well-known tipster Digital Chat Station has revealed anticipated design updates for the next three generations of iPhones. It’s still uncertain if these changes will apply to the standard iPhones or only the Pro versions.

    iPhone 17 Series Launch

    This year, Apple is set to unveil the iPhone 17 series. According to the leaker, the latest model will showcase notable alterations to its rear design. Instead of the traditional square camera module, the new phone is predicted to sport a large rectangular camera arrangement.

    Future Generations

    The iPhone expected in 2026, presumably named the iPhone 18, is rumored to feature substantial modifications to its front design. The leak suggests that Apple will implement a punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera, while Face ID will be placed beneath the display. The 2027 model, referred to as the iPhone 19, is anticipated to take it a step further, with both the selfie camera and Face ID located under the screen, leading to a notch-free iPhone experience.

    It’s important to highlight that this information is not confirmed and relies on leaked sources, so it’s wise to approach it with skepticism.

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  • Apple May Redesign iPhone Annually Until 2027, Leak Says

    Apple May Redesign iPhone Annually Until 2027, Leak Says

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 series will feature a significant design update, particularly with a broader rear camera bump in the Pro variants.
    2. Camera components may see a shift in positioning, with possible changes to the LED flash, microphone, and LiDAR sensor.
    3. Apple plans to implement major design changes annually for the next three generations of iPhones, starting from 2025.
    4. The iPhone 18 is rumored to introduce a punch-hole design for the front camera and may include under-display Face ID technology.
    5. The iPhone 19 could be Apple’s first fully full-screen device, eliminating the notch or cutout, but challenges with under-display camera technology remain.


    Apple is set to give its iPhone series a significant design update, marking the most considerable change in years. The forthcoming iPhone 17 lineup, particularly the Pro variants, is anticipated to have a broader rear camera bump that extends further across the back of the device.

    Rear Camera Adjustments

    The camera lenses will maintain their position on the left side, but there might be a shift for the LED flash, microphone, and LiDAR sensor to the right side. There is some confusion regarding whether these models will feature a dual-tone design on the back; while some leaks suggest this will happen, others dispute it.

    Future Design Direction

    This redesign seems to be just the beginning. After a lengthy period of being conservative with design choices, Apple seems poised to change its approach starting in 2025. According to a recent leak from China, the tech giant plans to implement significant design alterations each year for at least the next three generations of iPhones.

    Upcoming Features and Changes

    Notable leaker Digital Chat Station has reiterated the reports of the camera module redesign set for the 2025 iPhones in their latest findings. In 2026, it appears Apple will focus on the front design of the device. The iPhone 18 series is rumored to replace the traditional pill-shaped front camera and Face ID module with a sleeker punch-hole opening for just the front-facing camera.

    What about Face ID? The leak suggests that Apple might finally introduce its much-anticipated under-display Face ID technology, allowing the entire system to be hidden beneath the screen.

    Vision for 2027

    If that’s not audacious enough, a more significant change is rumored for 2027. The iPhone 19 series could be Apple’s first completely full-screen iPhone, devoid of any notch or cutout. This implies that both the Face ID sensors and the front camera would be placed under the display.

    While rumors of a notch-free iPhone have circulated for some time, this is the clearest timeline we’ve seen thus far. However, executing consecutive design transformations is no small feat, even for a company like Apple.

    Challenges Ahead

    The technology for under-display cameras still has a considerable journey ahead. Android manufacturers like RedMagic have been testing this technology for several years, but the image quality has not yet reached the standards of traditional cameras. Therefore, if Apple proceeds with this feature in the iPhone 19, there may still be compromises.

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  • iPhone 18 Release Delayed to 2027: New Schedule Leaked

    iPhone 18 Release Delayed to 2027: New Schedule Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is expected to introduce a new model, the iPhone 17 Slim, alongside the iPhone 17 series this year.
    2. Starting next year, Apple may switch to a bi-annual release schedule for its smartphones.
    3. The standard iPhone 18 release might be delayed until early 2027, while the iPhone 18 Slim and other models could launch in September 2026.
    4. This new strategy aims to keep Apple competitive by releasing models at different times of the year.
    5. Introducing new iPhone models in early and late parts of the year could potentially increase sales for Apple.


    Big shifts might be coming for Apple. The company based in Cupertino is likely to introduce a completely new model this year in response to Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge. This new device, reportedly named the iPhone 17 Slim, is set to launch alongside other models in the iPhone 17 series later this year, possibly indicating a change in how Apple schedules its smartphone releases.

    New Release Schedule

    A fresh report from industry expert Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that Apple will switch to a bi-annual release timetable starting next year. Although all four iPhone 17 variants are scheduled to release this year as intended, it seems that the standard iPhone 18 might be pushed back to 2027.

    In light of this newly disclosed timeline, the iPhone 17e could be unveiled early next year, similar to how the 16e was revealed this year. The main launch event in September might then showcase the iPhone 18 Slim, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and Apple’s very first foldable iPhone all at once. The standard iPhone 18 would, however, be postponed to an early 2027 release, alongside the iPhone 18e.

    Competing Effectively

    Ming-Chi Kuo mentions that this adjustment aims to help Apple remain competitive throughout the year by rolling out new models both at the beginning and the end of the year. Currently, most Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) launch their flagship devices in the first few months of the year, leaving Apple without a direct competitor. Introducing two iPhone models during that time could, in theory, boost sales.

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  • Apple to Launch iPhone 18 in Two Phases: Pro and Foldable Models

    Apple to Launch iPhone 18 in Two Phases: Pro and Foldable Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple will stagger the launches of the iPhone 18 series in 2026 and 2027, moving away from its usual September release schedule.
    2. The iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, Air, and the first foldable iPhone are set to launch in fall 2026, while the standard iPhone 18 and affordable iPhone 18e will debut in spring 2027.
    3. This new release strategy aims to reduce production pressure and improve manufacturing processes, particularly as Apple increases production in India to reduce reliance on China.
    4. The foldable iPhone is expected to feature a book-like design, a 5.5-inch outer display, a 7.8-inch inner screen, and a liquid metal hinge for durability, with a potential price tag of around $2,000.
    5. Upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models may feature under-display Face ID technology, and the foldable iPhone could include enhanced AI functionalities and a dual-camera system.


    Apple is set to reveal its iPhone 17 series this September, but interest is already shifting towards the upcoming lineup for 2026. A notable change is on the horizon for Apple’s iPhone release schedule, as reported by The Information. The outlet claims that Apple intends to stagger the launches of the iPhone 18 series in 2026 and 2027, departing from its usual practice of unveiling everything in September at once.

    New Release Timeline for iPhone 18 Series

    The report indicates that during the typical fall event in 2026, Apple will roll out the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, a sleek iPhone 18 Air, and its inaugural foldable iPhone. The standard iPhone 18 and an affordable iPhone 18e, which will follow as the successor to the iPhone 16e, are expected to be launched in spring 2027.

    This change is meant to alleviate production pressure, especially as Apple boosts manufacturing efforts in India to lessen dependence on China due to trade issues. The staggered release schedule may also help simplify factory processes, requiring fewer workers during each launch period. The iPhone 18 Pro models are likely to incorporate under-display Face ID technology, replacing the Dynamic Island feature with a single front camera cutout, while the Air model is set to focus on a thinner profile.

    Anticipated Features of the Foldable iPhone

    Apple’s foldable iPhone, expected to debut in 2026, is said to sport a book-like design with a 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.8-inch inner screen, enhancing multitasking capabilities. To address durability issues, Apple is reportedly using a liquid metal hinge to reduce creasing. When opened, the device might measure about 4.5mm and could forgo Face ID in favor of a Touch ID power button sensor. It may also come with a titanium chassis and a dual-camera system. Priced around $2,000, this could be Apple’s most expensive iPhone to date. Enhanced AI functionalities and software improvements are anticipated to make it a premium, AI-focused device, paving the way for potential future foldable iPads or MacBooks.

  • Apple A20 Could Upgrade to TSMC’s 2nm Process, 15% Faster

    Apple A20 Could Upgrade to TSMC’s 2nm Process, 15% Faster

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 18 series is expected to use TSMC’s 2nm manufacturing technique for its A20 SoC, offering a 15% performance boost over the A19 chips.
    2. Earlier reports mistakenly suggested the A20 would stick with TSMC’s 3nm process, but updated analysis confirms the shift to 2nm.
    3. TSMC will begin accepting orders for 2nm wafers, with Apple likely being the first customer for the A20 chip.
    4. The iPhone 17 series will continue using the 3nm process with slight performance improvements due to higher transistor density.
    5. Both the iPhone 17 and 18 series may feature silicon-carbon batteries for increased capacity without added thickness.


    There has been a flurry of speculation and leaks regarding Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 series, which is set to debut next year, even before the iPhone 17 series has been revealed. Recent developments suggest that Apple is likely to adopt TSMC’s 2nm manufacturing technique for its A20 SoC, which will drive the iPhone 18 series. This change could provide the SoC with a boost of around 15% in performance compared to the A19 chips.

    Changes in Chip Manufacturing

    Earlier reports indicated that Apple would remain with TSMC’s 3nm process for the A20 chips, similar to the A19, meaning no significant performance enhancement. However, a different industry analyst has confirmed that the A20 chips will actually utilize TSMC’s 2nm process. In addition, a report from Economic News Daily claims that this innovative manufacturing method could result in a 15% performance increase over the 3nm, all while maintaining the same power consumption levels.

    Potential Orders and Production

    Another source has mentioned that TSMC is poised to begin accepting orders for its 2nm wafers, with Apple possibly being the first to place an order for its A20 chip utilizing this new process.

    The iPhones currently available are powered by the Apple A18 SoCs, which are built on the 3nm process. It is expected that the iPhone 17 series will continue using this same manufacturing technology. However, it is anticipated to offer slight improvements in performance compared to the existing generation, thanks to a higher transistor density made possible by an enhanced 3nm process.

    Battery Innovations

    For both the iPhone 17 and 18 series, Apple is rumored to implement silicon-carbon batteries that boast greater capacity without adding to the thickness of the devices.

    It’s important to remember that Apple has not released any official details regarding the iPhone 17 or 18 series, so take this information with caution.

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  • Apple A20 Will Not Use TSMC’s 2nm Technology in 2026

    Apple A20 Will Not Use TSMC’s 2nm Technology in 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple A20 chip will be released with the iPhone 18 in 2026, but it won’t be made using TSMC’s advanced N2 node as previously expected.
    2. The A20 will instead use TSMC’s N3P node, the same technology as the A19 chip scheduled for release this year.
    3. The A20 will feature TSMC’s CoWoS (Chip on Wafer on Substrate) packaging to differentiate it from the A19.
    4. TSMC’s 2 nm node is set to begin mass production in late 2025, which aligns with the timeline for the Apple A20 chips.
    5. The upcoming Apple M5 chip for iPad Pros will also use N3P technology, likely due to rising wafer costs.


    There has been a lot of talk about Apple’s A20 chip, which is expected to come out with the iPhone 18 in 2026. Some wild stories suggest that Intel Foundry might be involved in making it. However, it seems unlikely that Apple would switch to using the 18A tech so quickly, especially since it has strong partnerships with TSMC. Recently, 9to5Mac has shared some new details about the A20 that might not sit well with some die-hard Apple supporters.

    Manufacturing Details

    In a twist from previous information, the Apple A20 will not be produced on TSMC’s advanced N2 node as once thought. Instead, it will remain on the N3P node, which is also the same one used for the A19 chip set to release this year. To set the A20 apart from its predecessor, it will feature TSMC’s sought-after CoWoS (Chip on Wafer on Substrate) packaging.

    Future Production Plans

    According to TSMC’s plans, its 2 nm node is expected to begin mass production in the second half of 2025, aligning with the schedule for the Apple A20 chips for the iPhone 18. Even the upcoming Apple M5 chip for the iPad Pros will stick with the N3P technology, likely due to the rising costs of wafers. N2 is TSMC’s first technology to utilize Nanosheets (gate-all-around), which should bring noticeable improvements in performance, efficiency, and thermal management.

    MacRumors has indicated these developments may change the expectations for Apple’s future chip advancements.

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