What chip will the iPhone 18 Pro use?

It is expected to feature TSMC's first 2nm process A20 Pro chip for a performance bump.

Will the iPhone 18 have 5G satellite connectivity?

Yes, 5G via satellite is highlighted as a major feature that changes how people use their phones off-grid.

How will the iPhone 18 Pro design change?

It will feature under-display Face ID for a smaller Dynamic Island, alongside a thicker Pro Max model that houses a larger battery.

Is it worth upgrading to the iPhone 18?

It is mainly worth it if your current phone is three or more years old, or if you specifically need satellite connectivity or advanced camera controls.

Should I buy an older model before the iPhone 18 launches?

Many users suggest buying older models now to catch price drops, as the iPhone 18 is expected to come with a price hike.

IPhone 18 Specs, Design Changes, and Upgrade Advice

The iPhone 18 will likely bring refinements over revolutionary changes, featuring a 2nm A20 Pro chip for better performance and a variable aperture 48MP Fusion camera.

Design updates include under-display Face ID with a smaller Dynamic Island on the Pro models, a thicker Pro Max for a bigger battery, and a Dark Cherry color option that may look purple.

Users recommend waiting to score deals on older models unless your current phone is over three years old or you specifically need 5G satellite connectivity.

IPhone 18 Specs, Design Changes, and Upgrade Advice — infographic

The iPhone 18 is anticipated to bring incremental technical specifications and design refinements, rather than a revolutionary overhaul, with many Users suggesting waiting for its release to potentially find better deals on older models or to assess the actual value of the new features.

Technical Specifications

A20 Pro chip for performance boost: The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to feature TSMC's first 2nm process A20 Pro chip, offering a performance bump. "A20 Pro chip – TSMC’s first 2nm process. Performance bump, sure."

Improved camera with variable aperture: Rumors suggest a variable aperture 48MP Fusion camera, which would be a significant upgrade for serious photographers and videographers. "Variable aperture 48MP Fusion camera"

5G via satellite as a generational upgrade: The inclusion of 5G via satellite is highlighted as a truly generational upgrade that could change how people use their phones off-grid. "5G via satellite feels like the only truly generational upgrade here."

Design Changes

Smaller Dynamic Island: The iPhone 18 Pro may feature under-display Face ID, resulting in a smaller hole for the camera and a shrunken Dynamic Island. "Under-display Face ID on the Pro – so just a smaller hole for the camera, and maybe a shrunken Dynamic Island."

Thicker design for larger battery on Pro Max: The iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to be thicker due to a larger battery, which could improve battery life. "Pro Max getting thicker (bigger battery)"

New Dark Cherry color option: A new color option, Dark Cherry, is rumored for the iPhone 18 Pro, though some Users note it may appear more purple than red. "A red color option"

Upgrade Recommendations

Consider waiting for price drops on older models: Many Users suggest that waiting for the iPhone 18 release could lead to better pricing on the iPhone 17 or 17 Pro. "I would recommend a 17 now while you can get deals, 18 will get the price hike."

Upgrade if coming from an older iPhone (3+ years): Users with iPhones 3 or more years old are more likely to find the upgrade worthwhile due to significant improvements in performance and features. "People with iPhone that are 3+ year old will be upgrading. Anyone who has a phone in the last year or two has zero reason to do so."

Evaluate specific needs for camera and satellite connectivity: If features like advanced camera controls, improved battery life, or 5G satellite connectivity are priorities, the iPhone 18 might be a compelling upgrade. "If you’re not getting a foldable and don’t care about 5g satellite upgrade it’s mostly a S year."

Does this information help you decide if you should wait for the iPhone 18?

Best for: People with phones over three years old or users needing satellite connectivity and advanced camera controls.