While Apple has subtly adjusted screen sizes over the generations, one element has remained largely unchanged: the Dynamic Island. But that’s reportedly about to change.

The pill-shaped cutout, introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro in 2022, replaced the large notch from earlier models and became a signature design element across Apple’s premium line. Since then, however, it has seen virtually no evolution - until now.

According to reliable sources like leaker Ice Universe, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will feature a noticeably smaller Dynamic Island, shrinking from 20.76mm to just 13.49mm in width - a reduction of about 35%.

While not quite the leap to a single punch-hole camera, the change is substantial enough to offer a cleaner look and instantly signal the newest Pro generation.

This update may be enabled by moving the Face ID flood illuminator under the display - an important step toward Apple’s long-term vision of fully hidden sensors.

Importantly, the standard iPhone 18 and upcoming iPhone Air 2 are not expected to feature this change. Apple has traditionally reserved advanced display tech for its Pro models before trickling it down in later cycles. That said, since the iPhone Air 2 is expected in 2027 as a premium-tier device, it could still benefit from future iterations of this technology.

Display to get brighter, more efficient

Beyond the notch redesign, the iPhone 18 lineup is rumored to bring unprecedented brightness levels. A source known as Instant Digital reports that Apple has set display requirements so high that Chinese panel maker BOE may be sidelined from the iPhone 18 production altogether.

The iPhone 17 already raised the bar with Super Retina XDR across all models, peaking at 3,000 nits outdoors. For iPhone 18, Apple appears to be aiming even higher - likely beyond BOE’s current capabilities.

Since the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro share similar brightness specs, it’s unlikely Apple would allow the iPhone 18 base model to outperform the Pro. This reinforces expectations that the Pro Max variant will take another leap forward.

Sources from Geeky Gadgets suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro Max could introduce Samsung’s LTPO Plus display technology. This would allow for brighter visuals while improving power efficiency - aligning with Apple’s ongoing push toward sustainability and longer battery life.

Toward a truly seamless display

In addition to a slimmer Dynamic Island, Apple may be closer than ever to fully concealing Face ID components beneath the screen. While the infrared camera still requires visibility, the potential integration of other sensors under the panel signals steady progress toward a fully immersive display.

Performance-wise, the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to run on the 2nm A20 Pro chip, offering stronger performance and battery efficiency. Apple may also debut its own C-Series modem to replace Qualcomm’s, enhancing connectivity and internal optimization.

These anticipated upgrades suggest the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be more than just an incremental refresh - it could represent a defining shift in both form and function for Apple’s flagship line.

Hai Phong