- 0-20%: Unlikely - Lacks credible sources
- 21-40%: Questionable - Some concerns remain
- 41-60%: Plausible - Reasonable evidence
- 61-80%: Probable - Strong evidence
- 81-100%: Highly Likely - Multiple reliable sources
55%
Plausible
Apple likely intends to maintain its top position as the world’s largest smartphone brand with the imminent launch of the iPhone 18 series, and to ensure that the unveiling progresses smoothly, the company has already commenced preparations for the lineup. For instance, it was previously rumored by Fixed-focus digital cameras that the production lines for the newer models had undergone testing, and now, a tipster claims that the prototype manufacturing phase of the new series has started. What’s even more interesting is that the iPhone 18 Pro models are rumored to feature under-display Face ID, along with two additional surprises, which readers will learn about shortly.
Apple might not cancel the second-generation iPhone Air, as the rumor mentions its display size; the base model is also expected to be unveiled with the lineup, but no mention of the iPhone Fold
Due to lackluster iPhone Air sales that reportedly saw Apple slash its production, there was always a cloud of doubt surrounding the iPhone Air 2 launch. Fortunately, Digital Chat Station, who has compiled a decent track record on Weibo, has shared the display sizes of all four models expected to arrive later this year. What’s surprising about this revelation is that the individual doesn’t mention the iPhone Fold, which is supposed to launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, with the base model expected to arrive with the iPhone 18e in H1 2027 with a rebrand to iPhone 20.
Instead, based on the information provided, Apple is sticking to its original launch strategy of unveiling four regular-shaped flagships. While the entire lineup is expected to feature LTPO OLED panels with a refresh rate that goes up to 120Hz, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are rumored to exclusively be treated to under-display Face ID. The machine translation of Digital Chat Station’s post says ‘Under-Display Display (with new area),’ but this isn’t a standard term, and what we are likely referring to is under-display technology.
Also, we don’t expect Apple to introduce an under-screen front-facing camera to this year’s lineup, as this significant change is likely reserved for its 20th anniversary release. As for the display sizes and other technologies, those are listed below:
- iPhone 18 - 6.27-inch LTPO 120Hz panel with a Dynamic Island
- iPhone Air 2 - 6.55-inch LTPO 120Hz panel with a Dynamic Island
- iPhone 18 Pro - 6.27-inch LTPO 120Hz panel with under-display Face ID
- iPhone 18 Pro Max - 6.86-inch LTPO 120Hz panel with under-display Face ID
Of course, we need to remind ourselves that, since we’re in the prototype production phase, Apple may have other variants that it is testing. Assuming the aforementioned devices don’t perform according to the company’s expectations, we could get vastly different changes later this year.
News Source: Digital Chat Station
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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