Apple’s planned iPhone 18 Pro series, slated for release in the third quarter of 2026, signals a radical shift in the company’s design language. Leaked information suggests the new Pro models will feature radical innovations never seen before on any iPhone, encompassing both the front and back of the device.

iPhone 18 Pro design revealed

One of the most striking design innovations is the testing of a special punch-hole solution for the front camera, known as “HIAA.” This move appears to directly impact the future of Dynamic Island, one of the iPhone’s distinguishing features.

While some sources suggest Apple will completely abandon the current notch-like design, others claim that the TrueDepth camera system will be hidden under the display, along with the punch-hole design.

The design transformation won’t be limited to the display; Apple is working on a translucent back cover that will partially reveal the device’s internal components. This innovative approach will offer a visual aesthetic similar to the Nothing Phone devices and give the iPhone a distinct look.

The camera module will retain its large, horizontal structure, similar to current models. Significant camera technology updates are also expected; the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to feature a 48MP telephoto sensor and a variable aperture system.

The company is also preparing to switch to a three-layer image sensor structure in the camera module. Powering the device, the company plans to switch to a steel-framed battery.

This will both increase energy density and minimize heating issues. Considering all these radical innovations, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to pave the way for the iPhone 20, which will coincide with Apple’s 20th anniversary.

While the company’s long-term goal is to achieve a completely seamless iPhone design featuring an under-display camera system and unibody glass, we will have to wait a while longer for all these details to be finalized.