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Leaks Suggest Design Changes for iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Models

Recent leaks indicate potential modifications to the front and rear designs of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, set for release this fall. These changes may include a smaller Dynamic Island cutout and adjustments to rear materials. The information comes from supply chain reports and a leaker on Weibo.

Forbes
1 source·Apr 12, 2:00 PM(47 days ago)·2m read
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Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models, expected to launch this fall, may feature alterations to their front and rear designs compared to current models. Leaks from supply chain sources point to possible changes in the Dynamic Island cutout and body materials. These details were reported by Forbes based on posts from a Weibo leaker known as Digital Chat Station.

The Dynamic Island, a pill-shaped cutout on the front display that houses Face ID sensors, could be reduced in size. According to the leak, Apple is conducting A/B testing on two screen mold variants: one with the existing Dynamic Island size and another with a smaller version where the Face ID sensor is positioned under the display area.

If adopted, the smaller design would align with the iPhone 18 Pro series, potentially following comments from Samsung about Apple's design plans.

The rear of the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to retain the rectangular camera plateau introduced in the iPhone 17 Pro.

However, the leak mentions minor adjustments to body materials and design details on the back. These changes may aim to create a more uniform appearance between the aluminum unibody frame and the glass area used for wireless charging. MacRumors reported on the leaker's follow-up post, which referenced current supply chain feedback.

The testing phase for these designs is said to be underway as of mid-April. Apple has not confirmed any of these details.

This is not the first report suggesting a smaller Dynamic Island for future iPhones.

The leaker, Digital Chat Station, has a history of accurate predictions on Apple product designs. The leaks highlight ongoing refinements in iPhone aesthetics, which could affect user experience and manufacturing processes. Consumers and industry observers await official announcements from Apple, typically held in September.

Such design changes could influence device durability, weight, and integration of features like wireless charging. The iPhone series remains a key product line for Apple, driving significant revenue.

Key Facts

iPhone 18 Pro
may feature smaller Dynamic Island via A/B testing
Rear design
retains rectangular plateau with material adjustments
Leaker source
Digital Chat Station on Weibo with track record
Testing phase
underway in mid-April for screen molds

Story Timeline

3 events
  1. Mid-April 2026

    Supply chain feedback indicates A/B testing for Dynamic Island designs on iPhone 18 Pro.

    1 sourceForbes
  2. Recent weeks

    Leaker Digital Chat Station posts details on potential rear design adjustments for iPhone 18 Pro.

    1 sourceForbes
  3. Fall 2026

    Apple plans to release iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max with possible design changes.

    1 sourceForbes

Potential Impact

  1. 01

    Design changes could alter manufacturing costs for Apple suppliers.

  2. 02

    Uniform rear materials might enhance device durability and charging efficiency.

  3. 03

    Smaller Dynamic Island may improve front display aesthetics for users.

Transparency Panel

Sources cross-referenced1
Framing risk0/100 (low)
Confidence score75%
Synthesized bySubstrate AI
Word count335 words
PublishedApr 12, 2026, 2:00 PM
Bias signals removed2 across 2 outlets
Signal Breakdown
Editorializing 1Speculative 1

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