Apple’s long-term iPhone redesign plans are slowly coming into focus, and early iPhone 18 Pro leaks point to one of the biggest design and hardware changes in recent years. While the device is still more than a year away, reports suggest Apple is testing under-display Face ID, introducing new colour options, upgrading cameras, and launching a next-generation A20 Pro chipset.
If these leaks are accurate, the iPhone 18 Pro could deliver a cleaner design, smarter cameras, and a fresh premium look for users in the UAE.
Under-Display Face ID: A Cleaner iPhone Design Ahead?
According to multiple industry sources, Apple is developing under-display Face ID for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. This means the core Face ID sensors could be placed beneath the display, reducing the need for visible cutouts.
Currently, Apple uses Dynamic Island to house Face ID hardware and the front camera. With under-display Face ID, the front of the iPhone could appear almost fully edge-to-edge — a major upgrade for watching videos, browsing, and gaming.
Dynamic Island may still remain, but more as a software-based feature rather than a physical necessity.
Why This Technology Matters
Face ID relies on infrared sensors and dot projectors, which are difficult to hide under a display without affecting accuracy. Apple has reportedly spent years refining display materials and sensor placement to ensure Face ID remains secure and reliable, even in bright outdoor conditions common in the UAE.
New iPhone 18 Pro Colours: Fresh Look for 2026
Concept render showing possible iPhone 18 Pro color options (burgundy, brown and purple). Image for illustration purposes only.
Alongside hardware upgrades, new leaks suggest Apple is also testing bold new colour options for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. This would mark a noticeable shift from Apple’s recent preference for safe, muted Pro colours.
Leaked Colour Options (Early Reports)
Sources indicate Apple is experimenting with the following finishes:
- Burgundy – a deep wine-red shade that looks premium and distinctive
- Brown – a warm, earthy tone designed to feel elegant and unique
- Purple – a rich, modern colour that has proven popular in past iPhone releases
These shades could be introduced alongside more traditional options like Silver, Black, or Blue, giving buyers more choice without compromising the Pro identity.
Apple usually finalises colours late in development, so not all leaked options may make it to launch. Historically, Apple selects one or two standout colours each year to keep the Pro lineup exclusive.
For UAE buyers, these new colours could offer a more personalised, luxury feel — especially for users who prefer something different from standard black or silver phones.
iPhone 18 Pro Camera Upgrades: Better Photos in All Conditions
Camera improvements form a major part of the iPhone 18 Pro leaks, with Apple focusing on real-world image quality rather than just numbers.
Variable Aperture Main Camera
One of the most exciting rumours is the introduction of a variable aperture main camera, allowing the lens to control how much light reaches the sensor.
Expected benefits include:
- Improved night photography
- Better indoor shots
- More natural portrait background blur
- Reduced overexposure in bright daylight
Telephoto & Video Enhancements
Leaks also point to improvements in:
- Telephoto zoom quality
- Portrait mode accuracy
- Video stabilisation and cinematic recording
Apple already leads in smartphone video, and these upgrades could further improve content creation for vloggers and social media users in the UAE.
Performance & A20 Pro Chip: Built for AI and Efficiency
The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to debut with Apple’s A20 Pro chip, which may be built using a more advanced manufacturing process.
Expected improvements include:
- Faster performance
- Better battery efficiency
- Improved thermal control
- Stronger AI and machine-learning capabilities
Apple is increasingly focusing on on-device AI, including photography, voice processing, and privacy-focused intelligence. The A20 Pro chip is expected to support real-time image processing and smarter battery management.
Design Changes Beyond Face ID
Apart from under-display Face ID, leaks also hint at:
- Slimmer bezels
- Possible changes to selfie camera placement
- Subtle frame refinements
Rather than a radical redesign, Apple appears to be taking a refined, step-by-step approach, improving usability while maintaining the familiar iPhone feel.
What Else Do We Know So Far About iPhone 18 Pro Leaks?
Apple has not confirmed any details officially, but current leaks come from sources with a strong track record. Reports suggest Apple is testing multiple prototypes internally rather than committing to one design early.
Some Face ID prototypes reportedly still include a small front camera cutout, while others hide nearly all sensors beneath the display. This suggests Apple is prioritising security, reliability, and user experience over aggressive design changes.
With cameras, Apple appears focused on consistency across lighting conditions, which is especially important in regions like the UAE where lighting can vary greatly between indoor and outdoor environments.
Overall, these leaks point to a carefully planned evolution, not a rushed redesign.
iPhone 18 Pro UAE Launch Date: When Will It Arrive?
Based on Apple’s usual release pattern, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to launch globally in September 2026, with UAE availability shortly after through Apple Stores and authorised retailers.
Some reports suggest standard iPhone 18 models may arrive later, possibly in early 2027.
What This Means for UAE Buyers
If Apple introduces under-display Face ID alongside new colour options, camera upgrades, and the A20 Pro chip, the iPhone 18 Pro could offer:
- A more immersive, full-screen display
- Better photography in UAE lighting conditions
- Improved battery efficiency
- Fresh premium colour choices
- Smarter AI-powered features
As always, leaks may change before launch. However, the direction is clear — Apple is aiming for a sleeker design, smarter cameras, and a more refined premium experience.
FAQs
Will the iPhone 18 Pro feature under-display Face ID?
Leaks suggest Apple is actively testing it, but final confirmation depends on security and production readiness.
What new colours are expected on iPhone 18 Pro?
Early leaks mention Burgundy, Brown, and Purple, alongside traditional Pro colours.
What camera upgrades are expected?
A variable aperture main camera, improved low-light performance, better telephoto zoom, and enhanced video recording.
Which processor will power the iPhone 18 Pro?
The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to run on the A20 Pro chip, focusing on AI, efficiency, and thermal performance.
When will the iPhone 18 Pro launch in the UAE?
Most industry experts expect a September 2026 launch, with UAE availability shortly after.
