Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max leak hints at under-display Face ID, bigger battery, and A20 Pro chip

Apple is still some distance away from officially unveiling the iPhone 18 Pro series, but early leaks have already started shaping expectations around what could be one of the most noticeable design shifts in recent years. While nothing is confirmed at this stage, the steady flow of reports from supply chain sources and tipsters offers a glimpse into the direction Apple may be heading with its next Pro lineup.

One of the most talked-about changes is on the front of the device. Multiple reports suggest that Apple is working to place Face ID components under the display. If this transition happens smoothly, it could significantly reduce the visible cutout on the screen. Instead of the current centre-aligned Dynamic Island, the front camera may sit inside a small hole positioned at the top left corner. This would mark a clear visual departure from recent iPhone models and could allow for a more uninterrupted display experience.

Such a change would also raise questions about the future of Dynamic Island. If Face ID moves entirely under the panel, Apple may choose to remove the feature altogether. For users, this could mean a cleaner screen layout and better use of space, especially on the 6.3-inch iPhone 18 Pro and the larger 6.9-inch iPhone 18 Pro Max. Apple has been gradually refining display design over the years, and this could be the next step in that process.

Battery capacity is another area where improvements are being tipped. According to well-known tipster Digital Chat Station, the Chinese variant of the iPhone 18 Pro Max may come with a 5,000mAh battery. Interestingly, the global version is said to pack an even larger unit, possibly ranging between 5,100mAh and 5,200mAh. If accurate, this would be a meaningful jump compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which is expected to feature a 5,088mAh battery.

Performance upgrades are also expected to play a major role in the new lineup. The iPhone 18 Pro series is widely rumoured to debut the A20 Pro chip, built using TSMC’s 2nm process. This next-generation fabrication technology is expected to bring around a 15 percent increase in performance along with a 30 percent improvement in energy efficiency, helping balance power and battery life more effectively.

Camera enthusiasts may also see something new this time. Reports suggest Apple could introduce a mechanical variable aperture on the main 48MP camera, allowing it to switch between f/1.4 and f/2.8. This would give users better control over light intake and depth, particularly in challenging lighting conditions.

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Taken together, these early details point to a careful evolution rather than a dramatic overhaul. With months still to go before launch, the picture may change, but for now, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is shaping up as a device focused on refinement, efficiency, and subtle design progress.