iPhone 18 to get smaller Dynamic Island, but base model may launch months after Pro

The base iPhone 18 could receive a surprising design change, while its launch may happen significantly later than that of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. According to analyst Jeff Pu, Apple plans to shrink the Dynamic Island on the upcoming smartphone. In addition, the iPhone 18 and the more affordable iPhone 18e are expected to get more RAM.

Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September. However, multiple leaks over the past few months point to a shift in the release schedule for the base model. For the first time, Apple may not introduce the iPhone 18 alongside the Pro versions, instead launching it in spring 2027 together with the iPhone 18e.

Citing Jeff Pu, 9to5Mac reports that the iPhone 18 will feature an unexpected design update compared to the iPhone 17. The change involves a smaller Dynamic Island, which preliminary leaks suggest is also planned for the iPhone 18 Pro.

According to rumors, Apple intends to hide the infrared projector under the AMOLED panel. As a result, only the front camera and an infrared sensor would remain in the oval cutout. This could significantly reduce the size of the island, which currently occupies a noticeable portion of the display on existing models.

Alongside the design change, the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e are expected to receive an increased amount of RAM. Exact figures have not been disclosed, but the analyst links this to the development of Apple Intelligence features, which require more device resources.

If the rumors prove accurate, the company will alter its long-standing strategy of announcing all models of a new generation at the same time. Delaying the base iPhone 18 launch until spring 2027 would be an unprecedented move for Apple. Users who do not plan to buy the Pro versions would have to wait several months longer than usual for the new device.