Tue Jan 20 10:20:00 UTC 2026: ### iPhone 18 Pro Models Expected to Feature New Under-Display Technology, While Base Models Maintain Current Design

The Story:
Apple’s upcoming iPhone lineup, slated for release starting in September 2026, is generating buzz due to leaked details about display changes, particularly for the Pro models. According to a report from Digital Chat Station on Weibo, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to retain their current screen sizes and refresh rates but will feature a “new under-display area” instead of the Dynamic Island. The base iPhone 18 and a potential second-generation iPhone Air, expected later in Spring 2027, are projected to maintain the specifications of their predecessors, including the Dynamic Island.

The shift in display technology for the Pro models could pave the way for the introduction of an under-display camera in future iPhones. While rumors surrounding the evolution of the Dynamic Island have varied, with some suggesting a simple size reduction, the potential move to an under-display area represents a significant departure in design philosophy.

Key Points:

  • The iPhone 18 and a second-generation iPhone Air are expected in Spring 2027 with similar display specs as their predecessors: iPhone 17 and iPhone Air respectively.
  • The iPhone 18 will feature a 6.27-inch display, with a 120Hz refresh rate and Dynamic Island.
  • The iPhone Air 2 will have a 6.55-inch 120Hz screen, matching the iPhone Air.
  • The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, arriving in September 2026, are projected to keep their current screen sizes (6.27-inch and 6.86-inch respectively) and 120Hz refresh rates.
  • The Pro models are rumored to feature a “new under-display area” instead of the Dynamic Island.
  • The under-display area could potentially lead to an under-display camera in future iPhones.

Critical Analysis:

The historical context provided suggests that the direction of the Dynamic Island’s evolution and a potential selfie camera overhaul are active areas of development and speculation at Apple. The news article builds on this context by suggesting that these changes may manifest in the iPhone 18 Pro.
Specifically, the context provided from January 20, 2026 stated:
– “Dynamic Island will move & get really tiny, if a leaker who’s being sued by Apple is right”
– “The iPhone 18 Pro’s biggest change may be its selfie camera”
The news article appears to corroborate this information and reinforces the idea of the under-display camera being the forefront development of the Pro models, but is subject to potential variation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Apple appears to be differentiating the Pro and non-Pro iPhone models more significantly through display technology.
  • The introduction of an under-display area on the Pro models could signal a move towards an under-display camera in future iPhone generations.
  • Release timelines for the iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 are projected to be in Spring 2027, later than the Pro models which will arrive in September 2026.
  • The development of a under-display selfie camera remains a key design goal, indicated from historical contexts.

Impact Analysis:

The shift towards under-display technology could have a significant long-term impact on the smartphone industry. If Apple successfully implements an under-display camera, it could prompt other manufacturers to follow suit, leading to a new generation of bezel-less smartphones with improved screen real estate and aesthetic appeal. The decision to reserve this technology for the Pro models will likely further solidify their position as premium devices, driving sales and strengthening Apple’s market share in the high-end smartphone segment. Furthermore, this move reinforces Apple’s focus on innovation and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobile technology.

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