Apple’s next iPhone lineup could see a major camera upgrade. According to a new JP Morgan report (via MacRumors), all flagship iPhone 18 models will feature a 24-megapixel front-facing camera, a noticeable jump from the 18-megapixel sensors on the iPhone 17 series.
This improvement suggests sharper selfies and more accurate portraits across the board. The 18-megapixel camera on the iPhone 17 was already a solid upgrade, but moving to 24 megapixels would further enhance clarity and detail, especially in low light. The new camera is expected on the iPhone 18, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone Air 2, and Apple’s first foldable iPhone.
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The current iPhone 17 models already use Apple’s “Center Stage” camera with a square sensor that offers a wider field of view. It allows users to take both portrait and landscape selfies without changing the phone’s position. The next-generation 24-megapixel sensor could build on this design, refining how the front camera handles framing and motion.
The same report seen by MacRumors notes that Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone will include a 24-megapixel under-screen camera built into its inner display. That would make it the first of its kind in the industry, allowing a full-screen experience without a visible lens cutout.
Budget Models to Keep 12MP Cameras
While the flagship models get this major leap, Apple’s more affordable iPhones will stay behind. The second-generation iPhone 17e and third-generation iPhone 18e will continue using a 12-megapixel front-facing camera. This helps Apple maintain clear product differentiation while keeping entry prices lower.
Split Launch Plan for 2026 and 2027
The JP Morgan report also outlines a shift in Apple’s release strategy. Starting in 2026, Apple will reportedly divide its iPhone launches between two seasons. The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, second-generation iPhone Air, and the foldable model will arrive in the second half of 2026. The regular iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e are said to follow in spring 2027.
If accurate, this could mark one of Apple’s biggest changes to its iPhone release cycle, giving more breathing room between premium and standard model launches.
Apple hasn’t confirmed these details, but if the report holds true, the 24-megapixel upgrade could redefine how iPhone users take selfies and video calls.
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