Even though Apple’s iPhone 17 series won’t debut for another half-year, the rumor mill has already jumped ahead to the upcoming iPhone 18 models.
Next-Level Processing: Apple’s 2nm A20 Chip?
Earlier leaks initially suggested the iPhone 18 would feature the A20 chip based on TSMC’s N3P manufacturing process—Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s third-generation 3nm technology. Apple’s upcoming M5 processors and A19 chips for the iPhone 17 were also set to use the same N3P technology.
However, newer leaks have dramatically changed expectations. Recent information from industry analysts suggests that the iPhone 18 series processors may instead adopt TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm technology. 
Reportedly, TSMC achieved trial production yields of 60-70% for their 2nm chips more than three months ago—and those numbers have since climbed even higher. Consequently, the A19 and A19 Pro processors would remain on the improved 3nm process (N3P), while the A20 and A20 Pro chips in iPhone 18 models could make a revolutionary leap to the highly advanced 2nm process (N2).
This massive technological jump would undoubtedly mean significant performance boosts, improved efficiency, and possibly groundbreaking battery life for future iPhones.
Screen Innovations: Under-Display Face ID & Smaller Dynamic Island
In 2023, an industry analyst revealed a roadmap predicting under-display Face ID for the iPhone 17 Pro. However, by May 2024, this milestone was reportedly pushed back to 2026.
Consequently, this breakthrough may instead debut with the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max. Even with this under-display technology, Apple’s “Dynamic Island” feature is expected to remain, though likely smaller and less intrusive than current models.
Camera Revolution: Variable Aperture & Advanced Sensors
The iPhone 18 Pro series could introduce a groundbreaking 48MP main camera with a variable aperture. This would give users better control over depth of field, significantly enhancing their photography.
Additionally, Samsung is reportedly developing a sophisticated triple-layer stacked camera sensor, which Apple might integrate into the iPhone 18 Pro models. This advanced sensor design would drastically improve photo quality, enhance dynamic range, reduce image noise, and speed up camera responsiveness.
The Foldable iPhone is Becoming Real
More recently, numerous leaks surfaced regarding Apple’s long-rumored folding iPhone.
One significant new leak states Apple is meticulously refining the Display Driver IC (DDI) for its folding displays. The aim? Making the display assembly thinner, reducing heat output, and saving battery power. Thus, Apple’s first folding iPhone could be impressively thin and lightweight.
Furthermore, analysts report Apple plans to use liquid metal in the hinge component to boost durability, screen flatness, and achieve a truly crease-free screen experience. Apple has previously used liquid metal in smaller components, but this folding model would mark its first widespread use in key device elements.
With these cutting-edge materials and engineering methods, a question remains: how will Apple price their first-ever folding iPhone?
Conclusion: A Future to Look Forward to
From revolutionary 2nm chips and advanced under-screen Face ID to variable aperture cameras and folding screens, Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 lineup sounds truly futuristic. Each of these innovative features represents substantial leaps forward, cementing Apple’s reputation as a trailblazer in smartphone technology.
While we eagerly await official confirmations, these rumors paint an exciting picture of the next era in iPhone evolution. Stay tuned—Apple’s best might be yet to come!
