Apple iPhone 18 Pro Series May Launch in Deep Red, Feature Major Hardware Upgrades

Apple is expected to unveil its iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September 2026. Recent leaks suggest the company may introduce a deep red finish for these models. This would mark a significant shift in design, as Apple may also skip the classic black colour option for the second consecutive year.

Key Highlights

• Apple may launch iPhone 18 Pro series in deep red and skip black for the second year
• New design could include under-display Face ID and a punch-hole camera cutout
• A20 Pro chip and integrated RAM expected to boost performance and efficiency
• Pro Max model may feature a 5,100mAh battery and weigh over 240 grams
• Release expected in September 2026 with pricing similar to iPhone 17 series

Design and Display Changes

Multiple sources, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and tipster Digital Chat Station, report that Apple is testing a deep red colour for its upcoming Pro models. The move comes as some Android manufacturers also explore similar finishes, possibly anticipating Apple’s choice. If Apple omits black from the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, it would be the second year in a row without this traditional colour.

The iPhone 18 Pro models are expected to feature a new front design. Apple is reportedly working on under-display Face ID technology. This could reduce or eliminate the Dynamic Island, possibly replacing it with a small punch-hole camera cutout. Display sizes are likely to remain at 6.3 inches for the Pro and 6.9 inches for the Pro Max.

Hardware and Performance Upgrades

On the hardware front, Apple may introduce a mechanical iris for the camera system. The devices are tipped to use a new three-layer stacked image sensor, likely sourced from Samsung. This sensor could improve low-light performance, dynamic range, and processing speeds. Apple is expected to focus on hardware enhancements rather than relying mainly on computational photography.

The iPhone 18 Pro series will likely use Apple’s upcoming A20 Pro chip, built on a 2nm process. Reports indicate Apple may integrate RAM directly with the processor, increasing efficiency and speed. Early estimates suggest a 15 percent performance boost and up to 30 percent better efficiency. Enhanced on-device AI capabilities are also expected.

Battery life may improve, especially for the Pro Max model, which could feature a 5,100mAh battery. This upgrade might make the device thicker and heavier, potentially exceeding 240 grams.

Connectivity and Release Timeline

Apple is expected to introduce its next-generation C2 modem with the iPhone 18 Pro series. This could bring improved connectivity, including the return of mmWave 5G support in select markets.

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to launch in September 2026, following Apple’s typical release schedule. The standard iPhone 18 model may arrive later, possibly in 2027, though this is not confirmed.

Pricing for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup is expected to remain close to the iPhone 17 series. However, rising RAM costs and advanced chip manufacturing may result in a slight price increase. Apple may adjust storage options to manage pricing rather than making significant hikes.