As Apple’s iPhone 18 officially enters the prototype production phase, a wave of new leaks has shed light on the device’s most anticipated changes - particularly in display technology, which appears to be undergoing a significant overhaul.

Among the key takeaways, reports confirm that both the iPhone 18 and the iPhone Air 2 will adopt LTPO displays with a 120Hz refresh rate - an upgrade previously exclusive to Apple’s Pro models.

According to sources, the standard iPhone 18 will feature a 6.27-inch LTPO 120Hz panel. If true, this signals a strategic move by Apple to bridge the experience gap between standard and premium iPhones, democratizing smoother visuals across the lineup.

Meanwhile, the iPhone Air 2 - a lightweight, fashion-forward option - will be equipped with a 6.55-inch LTPO 120Hz screen. Its size places it comfortably between the standard and Pro Max models, offering a balanced experience for users seeking both portability and multimedia capabilities.

Both models will retain the Dynamic Island, reinforcing Apple’s commitment to the feature as a defining design element for non-Pro and semi-premium iPhones in the coming years.

Pro models to drop Dynamic Island

Interestingly, it’s the Pro models that are seeing the biggest visual shift. Leaks reveal that the iPhone 18 Pro will have a 6.27-inch LTPO 120Hz display, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max will stretch to 6.86 inches. However, neither will feature the now-familiar Dynamic Island.

Instead, Apple is reportedly embedding Face ID sensors beneath the display. The front-facing camera will remain as a small hole-punch cutout, marking a significant step toward a true edge-to-edge display.

This shift suggests Apple is ready to phase out the Dynamic Island on its high-end models in pursuit of a cleaner, more immersive screen experience. While this design pivot may spark debate - given the software integration and branding effort Apple has invested into Dynamic Island - the appeal of an uninterrupted display is likely to resonate with Pro users.

A stepping stone toward iPhone 20 Pro

Under-display Face ID has long been rumored, and its debut in the iPhone 18 Pro appears to be part of a long-term vision. Reports suggest that this will lay the groundwork for the iPhone 20 Pro - a special edition set for release in 2027 to mark the 20th anniversary of the iPhone.

This future flagship is expected to feature a “perfect” display - no notch, no hole, no Dynamic Island - just a seamless panel that wraps fluidly around all four edges.

If this vision holds true, the iPhone 20 Pro would represent a breakthrough similar in impact to the iPhone X in 2017, which introduced Face ID and removed the home button.

Apple’s hardware roadmap appears to be progressing steadily, at least in the realm of display design. Unlike other ambitious projects that have faced delays, the development path from iPhone 18 to iPhone 20 Pro seems consistent and focused.

For users and enthusiasts, this offers cautious optimism that Apple’s next design revolution may arrive on schedule.

If these early leaks are any indication, the age of near-perfect iPhone screens may be closer than ever.

Hai Phong