Apple plans to launch the iPhone 18 line in September 2026, with the Pro model introducing changes to the design of the rear and front screen. Reports indicate that the iPhone 18 Pro will have a transparent section on the back glass, similar to the translucent effects of Nothing products, but without luminous elements. This change aims to pay homage to the Macintosh computers of the 1990s, known for their colorful, semi-transparent casings that marked the era of innovation under Steve Jobs.

The device will maintain screen dimensions of 6.3 inches on the Pro and 6.9 inches on the Pro Max, with the rear camera module unchanged compared to the iPhone 17 Pro. The debut comes at a time of transition for Apple, which seeks to balance tradition and modernity amid competitors with bolder designs.

• Key design innovations: translucent section on MagSafe for better visual integration.
• Focus on nostalgia: direct reference to the iMac G3 and iBook, sold in millions in past decades.
• Frame maintenance: Titanium chassis and Ceramic Shield preserved for durability.

Translucent back evokes classic Apple era

The transparent section on the back of the iPhone 18 Pro should cover the MagSafe area, allowing a subtle view of the internal components without compromising protection. This choice contrasts with the current opaque glass, prioritizing aesthetics and functionality in wireless charging.

Experts see this option as a strategy to differentiate the productuto premium, integrating visual elements that refer to the company’s first successes in accessible and attractive design.

Changes to front screen eliminate current cutout

Apple tests a single hole in the upper left part of the screen to house the front selfie camera, eliminating the Dynamic Island present since the iPhone 14 Pro. This configuration reduces the space occupied, expanding the useful display area by around 5% compared to current models.

Face ID sensors will remain under the screen, but without full integration under the display, which postpones a completely borderless screen for future generations. The manufacturing process involves Samsung’s enhanced OLED panels, with a maintained 120Hz refresh rate.

Main camera advances with adjustable aperture

The main rear camera sensor on the iPhone 18 Pro will incorporate variable aperture, a technology already adopted by rivals such as Samsung and Huawei since 2019. This functionality allows manual adjustments from f/1.4 to f/2.0, controlling the entry of light and blur in photos and videos.

In addition, the telephoto module must maintain 48 MP, with 5x optical zoom, while the ultrawide module gains improved stabilization. 8K recording at 60 fps appears as possibleof, driven by the A20 Pro chip at 2 nm.

The transition to this mechanical opening requires precise calibration, ensuring compatibility with the iOS 27 software, which debuts at the same event.

Reinforced battery improves durability and cooling

The iPhone 18 Pro Max will receive a battery with a stainless steel casing, replacing the aluminum of the iPhone 16 Pro and improving impact resistance by 20%. This structure makes repairs easier and integrates with the existing vapor chamber, dissipating heat 15% more efficiently during intense tasks like video editing.

Battery capacity should rise to 4,800 mAh in the Pro Max, supporting up to 30 hours of mixed use, according to Apple’s internal testing standards. This change aligns with the sustainability goal, with 95% recycled materials overall.

Manufacturers such as TSMC, a chip partner, confirm that Apple’s C2 modem, replacing Qualcomm’s, will optimize consumption in 5G networks, extending autonomy in video calls. Production begins in the second quarter of 2026, with testing in Cupertino.

iPhone 18 line resets launch schedule

Apple’s 2026 strategy includes the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in the fall, followed by the base iPhone 18 and an “e” variant in the spring of 2027. This split allows for more focused annual updates, with the Pro prioritizing premium innovations.

The overall design preserves the titanium chassis but introduces colors like revisited Jet Black, absent on the iPhone 17. Analysts predict sales of 250 million units in the line, driven by these visual and functional adjustments.

Prototype reports indicate that transparency does not affect signal reception, thanks to specialized filter layers. The IP68 certification for water resistance remains unchanged, ensuring use in varied environments.