Apple iPhone 18 to Feature Design Upgrade and Increased RAM

Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to be unveiled in September 2026. According to multiple sources, notably analyst Jeff Pu, the base model may not be released until spring 2027, coinciding with the launch of the more affordable iPhone 18e.

Significant design modifications are anticipated for the iPhone 18 series compared to the iPhone 17, which retails at approximately £759. Notably, the redesigned, smaller Dynamic Island is expected to feature in both the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro. This renovation entails the integration of an infrared projector beneath the AMOLED panel, effectively minimising the pill-shaped punch hole that houses the front-facing camera and the infrared sensor for secure three-dimensional facial recognition.

The reduced size of the punch hole, approximately one-third smaller than previous models, is intended to enhance the functionality of the display area, offering more space for applications such as music playback and navigation.

There has been speculation regarding the RAM capacities of the new models, suggesting they could be upgraded from 8 GB to either 9 GB or 12 GB. Jeff Pu clarifies that both capacities are correct but apply to different models. The iPhone 18e is projected to include 9 GB of RAM, while the iPhone 18 will feature 12 GB, consistent with the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. This upgrade in memory is expected to bolster Apple’s artificial intelligence functionalities.

As the official launch date is still several months away, analysts advise caution in interpreting these rumours. Changes in specification and design can occur before the actual announcement. With the iPhone 18 series set to generate considerable interest, further details are likely to emerge as the release date approaches.