iPhone 18 Series: Foldable Models and Variable Aperture Cameras Tipped for 2026
London, 17 February 2026 – As Apple prepares for its next hardware cycle, a surge of leaks and analyst reports has provided a detailed look at the anticipated iPhone 18 lineup. While the devices are not expected to debut until September 2026, industry insiders suggest this generation will mark a significant pivot for the company, potentially introducing Apple’s first foldable smartphone alongside major internal hardware transitions.
Foldable Ambitions and Lineup Changes
Recent data indicates that the 2026 release schedule may differ from previous years. Reports suggest Apple is prioritising the development of an “iPhone Fold” to compete in the premium market. This shift has led to speculation that the base iPhone 18 model could see a delayed release or a secondary role as Apple focuses on high-end foldable technology. Furthermore, the entire iPhone 18 family is rumoured to move exclusively to eSIM technology globally, removing the physical SIM tray entirely to accommodate larger internal batteries.
Pro Series: Incremental Upgrades vs. “Real Camera” Tech
While some analysts, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, have described the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max as incremental updates over the current iPhone 17 Pro, other leaks point to a “real camera” revolution. The Pro models are tipped to feature a variable aperture system, a first for the iPhone line, allowing for professional-grade control over depth of field and light intake. However, engineering experts have raised concerns regarding the mechanical complexity and durability of such a system in a slim smartphone chassis.
Key Specifications and Rumoured Features
The following table outlines the technical expectations for the iPhone 18 Pro series based on current analyst notes and supply chain leaks.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | A20 Pro Chip (Next-generation architecture) |
| Display | Smaller Dynamic Island; Under-display Face ID rumoured |
| Camera | Variable aperture main lens; Major sensor upgrades |
| Connectivity | Dual eSIM only (No physical SIM slot); Apple-designed modem |
| Design | Redesigned back glass; New colours including Coffee Brown and Purple |
| Expected Launch | September 2026 |
Pricing and Market Outlook
Despite the inclusion of more expensive components like the A20 Pro chip and advanced camera optics, early pricing rumours offer a positive outlook for consumers. Analysts suggest that Apple is working to cut production costs elsewhere in the supply chain to keep the starting price of the Pro models static, mirroring the pricing structure of the previous two generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be a foldable iPhone 18?
Current reports from MacRumors and industry analysts suggest that Apple’s first foldable iPhone is slated for a September 2026 release, likely coinciding with the iPhone 18 series launch.
What is the “Liquid Glass” design?
According to static software records, iOS 18 is the final version to use the “flat” design language. Its successor is expected to transition to a new aesthetic known as “Liquid Glass,” which may influence the physical industrial design of the iPhone 18 hardware.
Will the iPhone 18 still have a SIM card slot?
Leaks indicate that Apple intends to drop physical SIM support entirely for the iPhone 18 lineup, opting for a dual eSIM configuration for all global customers to save internal space for larger batteries.