Apple’s next-generation iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are still months away from their official unveiling, but early rumours are already shaping expectations among tech enthusiasts. According to multiple reports, Apple is likely to debut its 2026 Pro flagship lineup in September 2026, continuing its long-standing tradition of autumn launches. Indian availability for the Pro models is expected to follow shortly after the global release, as has been the norm in recent years.
Interestingly, several leaks also hint that Apple may use this event to unveil its first-ever foldable iPhone, signalling a major shift in its product strategy. Meanwhile, the launch of the standard iPhone 18 model is reportedly being delayed to next year. While Apple has not officially confirmed any details about the launch timeline or lineup, insiders suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro series will focus on meaningful refinements rather than dramatic overhauls.
With expected upgrades across the camera system, battery, performance, connectivity and even display design, Apple appears to be aiming to further polish its premium flagship experience. Here’s everything we know so far about the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Expected iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max launch date in India
As per industry reports, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, along with Apple’s rumoured foldable iPhone, are expected to be announced during Apple’s annual September event in 2026, possibly in the second week of the month. Traditionally, Apple opens global pre-orders within days of the announcement, with retail availability in India beginning shortly thereafter.
The delayed launch of the standard iPhone 18 has also caught attention. Reports suggest Apple has pushed it to 2027 due to rising memory chip prices and tighter global supply chain conditions. With memory manufacturers prioritising AI data centre demand, Apple is believed to be recalibrating its launch strategy by focusing first on higher-margin Pro models and new form factors, such as the foldable iPhone. The standard variant may reportedly arrive later as part of a refreshed lineup, possibly alongside an iPhone 18e in early 2027.
Expected price of iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in India
Pricing details remain speculative at this stage, but early estimates indicate a potential price hike for Apple’s next Pro lineup. The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to start at around Rs 1,35,000 in India, while the larger iPhone 18 Pro Max could be priced close to Rs 1,54,900. For comparison, the current iPhone 17 Pro series starts at Rs 1,34,900, suggesting Apple may increase prices slightly to account for higher component costs and new technologies.
Expected design changes in the iPhone 18 Pro series
When it comes to design, Apple is known for taking an evolutionary rather than revolutionary approach. While the iPhone 17 Pro series introduced some noticeable layout refinements, the iPhone 18 Pro lineup is expected to build on that foundation with subtle yet thoughtful changes. The iPhone 18 Pro is likely to retain a 6.3-inch display, while the Pro Max could continue with the larger 6.9-inch screen.
Leaks suggest the overall form factor and silhouette will remain familiar, with minor adjustments aimed at improving ergonomics and visual appeal. One of the most talked-about changes involves the front design. Some reports claim Apple may further shrink the Dynamic Island, while others suggest it could be removed entirely in favour of under-display Face ID technology. There are also whispers of Apple testing a semi-transparent design internally, though it remains uncertain whether this experimental look will make it to the final consumer models.
Major camera upgrades expected on iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max
Camera performance is expected to be a key highlight of the iPhone 18 Pro series. According to leaks, this could represent one of Apple’s most significant camera upgrades in years. The Pro models are rumoured to feature an advanced triple rear camera setup anchored by a 48-megapixel primary sensor, paired with enhanced telephoto capabilities and a variable aperture system.
If implemented, variable aperture technology would allow users to adjust the lens opening based on lighting conditions, improving low-light photography and offering greater creative control. Enhanced optical zoom through teleconverter-style technology could also bring iPhone photography closer to professional-grade performance—an area where several Android brands have already made strides.
Battery life and performance improvements
On the performance front, the iPhone 18 Pro lineup is widely expected to debut a next-generation Apple Silicon chipset, likely named the A20 Pro. This new processor is expected to deliver noticeable gains in speed, power efficiency and on-device AI processing. Battery life is also expected to see improvements, particularly on the Pro Max variant.
Rumours suggest the iPhone 18 Pro Max could pack a battery capacity of around 5,100mAh, potentially making it the largest battery ever used in an iPhone. While this could lead to a slightly thicker and heavier device, it may significantly improve real-world endurance, especially for power users.
Connectivity and modem upgrades
In terms of connectivity, reports indicate that Apple’s upcoming C2 modem may debut with the iPhone 18 Pro Max. This could potentially bring back mmWave 5G support, offering faster speeds and improved network reliability in supported regions. Enhanced connectivity would further strengthen the Pro series’ appeal to users who rely on high-speed mobile data.
While all these details paint an exciting picture of Apple’s next flagship smartphones, it’s important to note that none of the information has been officially confirmed. As with all early leaks, the final specifications and features may vary when Apple formally unveils the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max later this year.
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