Apple is reportedly testing a new display design for next year’s iPhone 18 Pro series that could reduce the size of the front camera and reshape the screen. The change aims to make the Dynamic Island smaller, leading to a cleaner and more immersive display.
A popular Chinese leaker, Digital Chat Station, claims Apple is experimenting with a hole-in-active-area (HIAA) display process. This method allows the front camera to sit within the active area of the screen without taking up much space. The technique uses laser micro-drilling to create a compact camera hole inside the OLED panel, which helps maintain image quality while minimizing visible cutouts.
Digital Chat Station, which has shared accurate Apple details in the past, said the company is testing this approach for the iPhone 18 Pro models. Earlier reports also mentioned Apple’s plan to pair this display technology with under-display Face ID. However, the latest details suggest Apple might only be using HIAA for now, keeping Face ID above the screen for a later generation.
Smaller Dynamic Island and New Rear Camera
The leaker noted that this new design could slightly change the “screen shape,” hinting at a smaller Dynamic Island or a relocated camera cutout. Recent leaks also suggest the iPhone 18 Pro series will retain a Dynamic Island, but in a reduced form, keeping the display cleaner and less intrusive.
Apart from the display, Apple is said to be testing a rear camera with a variable aperture. The design of the camera bump reportedly remains the same as the iPhone 17 Pro. Another interesting claim mentions a “transparent design” near the MagSafe area, possibly exposing part of the internal layout under the Ceramic Shield glass.
Battery and Launch Timeline
The iPhone 18 Pro Max could introduce a new “steel-shell battery,” likely meaning a stainless-steel vapor chamber for better heat management. This would improve battery life and performance stability under heavy use.
We can expect Apple to announce the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September 2026. Other models, including the iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, a new iPhone Air, and Apple’s first foldable iPhone, may follow in early 2027 as part of a split launch schedule.
