Initial rumors suggested Apple might ditch the Dynamic Island in favor of a punch-hole display, like those found on many high-end Android phones. However, more recent leaks debunk that theory.

According to 9to5Mac, both Instant Digital and analyst Jeff Pu agree that Apple will instead reduce the size of the Dynamic Island - rather than eliminate it.

This confirms that Apple is not yet ready to part ways with the Dynamic Island, a feature that has become central to the iPhone experience.

A smaller Dynamic Island could improve screen space and potentially pave the way for future under-display camera technology.

Refreshed rear glass for better unification

On the back, Apple reportedly plans to refine the iPhone 18 Pro’s rear glass.

According to Digital Chat Station and Instant Digital on Weibo, Apple is implementing a new finishing process for the rear panel, blending the glass more smoothly with the aluminum frame.

Instant Digital claims the redesigned glass will minimize the visual difference between materials, resulting in a more cohesive and premium look.

This could address user complaints about the stark contrast between the glass and frame on the iPhone 17 Pro, while also improving how the phone feels in hand.

The iPhone 18 Pro lineup is also rumored to offer new color options. Additionally, the iPhone 18 Pro Max may be slightly thicker to accommodate a larger battery - a change that could also apply to the smaller Pro model.

New colors: Purple, burgundy red, and coffee brown

A well-known Chinese leaker recently revealed on Weibo that the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max could launch with three new color options: Coffee (Coffee Brown), Purple, and Wine Red (Burgundy).

Though names may vary by market, the overall color palette signals a shift toward deeper, more elegant tones compared to the current generation.

The iPhone 17 Pro, despite strong sales as confirmed by CEO Tim Cook, was criticized for its unconventional colors - particularly the absence of a classic black version. This year’s lineup only included Silver, Navy Blue, and Cosmic Orange.

The continued lack of a black model is likely to disappoint many users. Analysts believe this omission stems from Apple’s decision to use anodized aluminum frames to reduce weight. However, this material is more prone to scratches - leading to the so-called “scratchgate” issue.

Experts argue that offering a black version with anodized aluminum could make scratches even more visible, possibly prompting Apple to avoid this color for two consecutive years.

Still, from 2020 to 2024, Apple consistently offered black or dark gray options for its Pro models. The sudden absence has left many loyal fans disappointed.

As with all early leaks, these color options could change before the official launch. Apple typically finalizes color decisions late in the design process, influenced by market trends and material behavior.

Nonetheless, if current reports are accurate, the iPhone 18 Pro will bring a more polished and unified appearance, with a sleeker rear, a slimmer Dynamic Island, and a matured color selection.

Hai Phong