Apple begins trial production of iPhone 18 Pro ahead of a 2026 launch. Learn about the new camera, A20 chip, and minimal design changes.
© A. Krivonosov
Apple has begun trial production of the iPhone 18 Pro, according to Chinese insiders. At least the Pro model is undergoing manufacturing process verification ahead of the official launch, expected in September 2026. This testing phase allows evaluation of build quality and equipment functionality at factories, but it is not full-scale production.
The standard iPhone 18 is also undergoing series testing, though it is at an earlier verification stage. Unlike the Pro and Pro Max models, its release will likely occur early next year, after all engineering tests and DVT are complete.
Fixed Focus Digital reports that the iPhone 18 Pro design has changed little compared to the iPhone 17, aside from a possible size reduction. This confirms that external changes will be minimal, with the main focus on internal upgrades. Key innovations for the iPhone 18 Pro include a new camera system with variable aperture, the A20 chip, and the proprietary C2 modem. These enhancements aim to boost performance and functionality, though they won't make the smartphone radically different from its predecessor.
Mark Gurman of Bloomberg notes that the iPhone 18 Pro is unlikely to be the star of Apple's fall release. Attention is expected to center on the first foldable iPhone, which will serve as the company's new key innovation.