Recent reports from leakers, primarily Digital Chat Station, have provided alleged details regarding Apple's future iPhone models. These reports outline potential screen sizes, display technologies, Dynamic Island and Face ID configurations for the anticipated iPhone 18 series, as well as specifications for an iPhone 17e model, excluding any foldable designs. The information presented remains unconfirmed by official sources.
iPhone 18 Series Projections
Overview
Details have surfaced for four anticipated models: the iPhone 18, iPhone Air 2, iPhone 18 Pro, and iPhone 18 Pro Max. These reports indicate potential updates to display technology and front-facing sensor arrangements.
Display Specifications
All models in the iPhone 18 series are widely expected to feature LTPO 120Hz displays. Reported screen sizes include:
- iPhone 18: Ranges from 6.27-inch to 6.3-inch.
- iPhone Air 2: Ranges from 6.5-inch to 6.55-inch.
- iPhone 18 Pro: Ranges from 6.27-inch to 6.3-inch.
- iPhone 18 Pro Max: Ranges from 6.86-inch to 6.9-inch.
These display sizes and the use of LTPO 120Hz technology are noted to align with aspects of the current iPhone 17 series.
Dynamic Island and Face ID
Variations in the Dynamic Island design are suggested across the lineup:
- iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2: These standard models are expected to retain the current Dynamic Island design.
- iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max: These Pro models are anticipated to feature under-screen Face ID. Reports on the display area vary, suggesting possibilities such as a new under-display area, a reduced-size pill shape, or a simple hole-punch cutout positioned in the top-left corner of the display, moving the front camera to eliminate the pill-shaped cutout. This revised design is projected exclusively for the Pro models.
Projected Release Timeline
Rumors suggest a phased release for the iPhone 18 series:
- The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are anticipated for release around September of the current year.
- The standard iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 may launch later, around March 2027.
iPhone 17e Rumors
Separate reports, also from Digital Chat Station, detail specifications for an iPhone 17e model.
Display and Design
The iPhone 17e is rumored to feature a Dynamic Island, replacing the traditional notch found on previous models. Its display is expected to be a 6.1-inch OLED panel with a 60Hz refresh rate, contrasting with the 120Hz displays anticipated for other rumored iPhone 17 models. The design may draw inspiration from the iPhone 15, which introduced the Dynamic Island and a more rounded frame. The Dynamic Island is described as an interactive area for ongoing activities and housing front-facing sensors.
Performance and Connectivity
- Chip: The device is rumored to incorporate an A19 chip, which would succeed the A18 chip reportedly found in the iPhone 16e. This A19 chip is based on TSMC's third-generation 3nm process (N3P) and is estimated to offer a 5-10% increase in raw CPU performance compared to the A18. Another leaker has suggested a potentially downclocked A19 chip for the iPhone 17e, which might be comparable to Apple's A17 Pro chip, excluding Neural Engine improvements.
- MagSafe: The iPhone 17e is expected to include a magnetic ring for MagSafe charger compatibility, a feature reportedly absent in the iPhone 16e.
- Modems: To manage costs, the device might utilize older C1 or C1X modems and potentially lack an N1 wireless chip, according to leaked Apple code.
Camera Specifications
The iPhone 17e is expected to retain a 12-megapixel front-facing camera and a 48-megapixel rear camera, alongside Face ID functionality.
Anticipated Launch and Pricing
The launch of the iPhone 17e could occur as early as February or later in the spring, similar to the iPhone 16e's release schedule. The starting price is projected to remain at $599.
Source Information
The details presented originate primarily from leaker Digital Chat Station, an account on Weibo with a history of reportedly accurate Apple leaks. These details are based on rumors and are not officially confirmed by Apple.