Khaberni - Apple is preparing to launch its new generation of flagship phones, after the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models entered the pilot production stage, a clear indicator of the anticipated official unveiling expected in September 2026, according to its usual annual schedule.
According to leaks circulating on Chinese tech platforms, the devices have already begun testing actual assembly lines, a pivotal step in the smartphone manufacturing cycle known within supply chains as the Production Validation Run.
During this stage, the company not only tests prototypes but also operates real production lines using the final manufacturing tools, aiming to ensure the readiness of the factories for efficient operation before moving to mass production.
Usually, successfully passing this stage means that the product has entered its final phases before commercial launch, reinforcing expectations that the countdown for the iPhone 18 series has actually begun.
Despite earlier expectations of a radical redesign, current leaks suggest a more conservative development philosophy; the "Pro" models are likely to maintain the general lines of the previous generation, with precise engineering improvements rather than comprehensive visual changes.
Among the most notable possible updates is reducing the size of the Dynamic Island feature, with a chance to move some facial recognition system components underneath the screen, which would provide a larger display area and a more seamless visual experience. Apple appears to prefer focusing on refining technical details this year rather than venturing into significant design changes.
Regarding specifications, the latest leaks suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will receive a significant upgrade in the front camera, with a resolution that may reach 24 megapixels. If this information is confirmed, it would be considered one of the major updates in the new series.
The expected improvement is not limited to just higher resolution but is also likely to enhance the quality of selfies, video call clarity, and performance under low light conditions, with a greater reliance on AI-supported processing algorithms. Some reports suggest that this upgrade may be exclusive to the "Pro" versions, thereby enhancing the technical gap between them and the standard models.
In a striking shift in color strategy, reports indicate that Apple is testing a new deep red color for the iPhone 18 Pro series, while possibly retaining the orange color that has been popular in some Asian markets.
The "Pro" series has historically featured subdued colors such as graphite, silver, and titanium shades. However, current indications suggest a move towards more bold options this year, while maintaining the luxurious character that distinguishes the category. There are also rumors of considering purple or brown shades, believed to be derived from the deep red color currently under internal review.
Will the iPhone Fold appear at the same event?
Parallel to these developments, speculations have resurfaced about the possibility of unveiling the iPhone Fold, Apple's first foldable phone, during the same event. Expectations suggest that — if launched — the device will come in more conservative colors such as black, dark gray, or silver, aligning with the company's approach to offering a foldable phone with a luxurious and simple character.
Although all this information is still within the realm of unconfirmed leaks, the iPhone 18 Pro series entering the pilot production stage lends them a greater degree of credibility; devices rarely reach this stage without having neared the end line in the development path.
With September 2026 approaching, the competition in the premium smartphone market is set for a new chapter, possibly combining thoughtful technical updates, a change in color philosophy, and perhaps a long-awaited surprise in the world of foldable phones.
