iPhone 18’s key design secret is revealed, here’s how Apple could shake up the next iPhone launch
The iPhone 18 Pro model may get a different backplate compared to the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max. According to reports, Apple is planning to reduce the color difference between the aluminum unibody and the Ceramic Shield 2 glass plate.
Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro lineup is rumored to have a notable change in design, with leaks indicating that the company plans to move away from the dual-tone rear finish seen on the existing iPhone 17 Pro models. According to tipster Instant Digital, the next generation may feature a more seamless and integrated back, which could potentially impact the look and feel of Apple’s flagship smartphones.
What will the iPhone 18 Pro get?
On the iPhone 17 Pro, Apple introduced a rear design featuring a glass cutout for MagSafe charging. This led to color differences between the aluminum unibody and the ceramic Shield 2 cutout. This approach sets the 17 Pro series apart from its predecessors, but for some, it may be polarizing.
For the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, Instant Digital claims Apple is planning to update the back-glass “replacement process” to reduce color variation between the glass and aluminum frame. If accurate, this change will lead upcoming models to a more visually unified appearance, which will likely be attractive to fans of minimalist design.
This rumor contradicts previously made predictions for the iPhone 18 Pro. Earlier this year, tipster Digital Chat Station hinted at a “slightly transparent design.”
Despite the growing anticipation, it’s worth noting that the sources behind these claims have varying track records. For example, Instant Digital has previously leaked accurate information about the yellow finish for the titanium Milanese loop of the iPhone 14 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, but it hasn’t always been completely reliable.
iPhone 18 Pro, here’s what we know
Apart from the Ceramic Shield backplate, the report indicates that the iPhone 18 Pro models will be quite similar to the 17 Pro, possibly with a larger camera plateau.
Apart from the design changes, the report indicates that the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max may debut with Apple’s A20 Pro chips, built on TSMC’s advanced 2nm process. They are also expected to use Apple’s own C2 modem instead of Qualcomm’s, indicating a continued effort for in-house hardware development.
Apple iPhone 18 Pro launch
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are said to launch in September 2026 along with Apple’s anticipated first foldable iPhone. Earlier it was believed that the company would also launch the next-generation iPhone Air. However, according to reports, Apple has delayed the launch of iPhone Air 2 due to low sales.
