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Leaks Flag Variable-Aperture Camera for iPhone 18 Pro and Possible Split Launch

Industry reporting based on Weibo posts suggests the Pro models could pair the camera shift with a new 2nm A20 chip and in‑house C2 modem as Apple weighs a phased 2026–27 rollout.

Overview

  • Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station is cited across outlets for claims that the iPhone 18 Pro line will introduce a mechanically adjustable, DSLR‑style aperture on the main camera.
  • The Pro telephoto is also reported to move to a brighter 48MP periscope lens with a larger aperture to boost low‑light performance.
  • Multiple reports say Apple may debut iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max (and possibly a foldable) in September 2026, with the standard iPhone 18 and a new 18e following in early 2027.
  • Separately, the entry‑level iPhone 17e is rumored to adopt the Dynamic Island but keep a 60Hz 6.1‑inch OLED display, with a launch expected in the first half of 2026.
  • Broader upgrades under discussion include a TSMC 2nm A20 processor, Apple’s C2 modem, and potential full 5G satellite support, with analyst Ming‑Chi Kuo previously naming Sunny Optical and Luxshare as camera suppliers; none of these details are confirmed by Apple.