Set for a likely launch in September 2026 - though some sources suggest the standard iPhone 18 could be delayed until spring 2027 - this generation is rumored to debut alongside a new “iPhone 18e” model.

While it's unclear whether Apple will stick to its usual simultaneous release of the iPhone 18, 18 Pro, and 18 Pro Max, what's more intriguing is what the base iPhone 18 might bring to the table.

Dynamic Island may disappear

According to PhoneArena, Apple could be planning to retire the Dynamic Island earlier than expected.

Introduced as a temporary solution for managing notifications and system indicators, the feature might give way to under-display 3D sensing technology currently being tested.

This would pave the way for a truly edge-to-edge display, leaving only a small hole-punch for the front camera - a minimalist design never seen on an iPhone.

For those who favor clean, modern aesthetics with fewer visual distractions, this could be a welcome upgrade.

New A20 chip built on a 2nm process

The iPhone 18 is expected to be powered by the A20 chip, Apple's first built using a 2-nanometer manufacturing process.

While that may sound technical, it translates to two major benefits: faster performance and improved power efficiency.

Leaked benchmarks suggest the A20 could be 15% faster than its predecessor, the A19, while consuming 30% less energy.

Smaller nodes also mean better heat management, so the device would remain cooler during heavy usage, extending battery life.

In essence, users can expect an iPhone that’s not only more powerful but also cooler and longer-lasting - an ideal combination.

Apple’s custom C2 5G modem

Another exciting rumor is Apple’s in-house C2 modem, following the C1 chip introduced in the iPhone 16e.

Expected to appear in the iPhone 18 lineup, the C2 modem represents a major step in reducing Apple’s reliance on Qualcomm.

It’s anticipated to deliver improved mmWave 5G support, faster download speeds through carrier aggregation, and better energy management.

Though not flashy, this internal hardware change would enhance overall performance and give Apple more control over integration and optimization.

Camera Control button may be removed

First introduced in the iPhone 16 lineup, the dedicated Camera Control button might not make it to iPhone 18.

Sources suggest Apple is considering dropping the feature due to low usage rates and high manufacturing costs.

This reflects Apple’s typical approach - experimenting with new hardware but retaining only those features that users truly value.

While the removal may disappoint fans of instant photo and video capture, it also signals a move toward a cleaner, more streamlined experience.

Base iPhone 18 could get 12GB RAM

Perhaps the most significant performance leap for the standard iPhone 18 would be a memory upgrade to 12GB RAM, according to MacRumors.

Currently, only the iPhone 17 Pro series features 8GB of RAM. Increasing to 12GB would put the standard model on par with many high-end smartphones.

This upgrade becomes especially important as Apple continues to integrate advanced AI and “Apple Intelligence” features into its devices.

To fully support the next generation of on-device AI, a jump in RAM will likely be essential.

A modest upgrade, but still meaningful

While the iPhone 18 may not usher in a dramatic overhaul - especially after the big camera and display changes introduced with the iPhone 17 - it’s shaping up to be a refined and intelligent iteration.

The removal of Dynamic Island, a more efficient 2nm chip, a proprietary modem, and significant RAM upgrades all point to a thoughtfully crafted iPhone for users who want power and polish without the Pro price tag.

Even if the wait extends into 2027, the iPhone 18 is poised to remain one of the most anticipated Apple devices yet - basic in positioning, but far from ordinary.

Hai Phong