Familiar design, futuristic display

According to a recent leak by reliable Weibo source Digital Chat Station, Apple is preparing key changes for its 2026 iPhone lineup, particularly the high-end iPhone 18 Pro and the entry-level iPhone 17e.

The iPhone 18 Pro will reportedly retain the same rear camera layout introduced with the iPhone 17 Pro, featuring a horizontal bump that preserves brand identity and cuts production costs. This aligns with Apple’s strategy of avoiding major design overhauls in consecutive years.

The biggest change may appear on the front. Apple is said to be testing under-display Face ID technology with its Korean partners. If successful, the iPhone 18 Pro could remove the Dynamic Island entirely, leaving just a small punch-hole camera centered at the top.

This would allow Apple to deliver a near-full-screen experience with a screen-to-body ratio of up to 98%, making the iPhone 18 Pro one of the most immersive smartphones on the market.

iPhone 20 Apple.png
The iPhone 18 Pro may be the first model to completely eliminate the Dynamic Island, leaving only a small centered punch-hole selfie camera.
 
 

However, industry analysts caution that mass deployment of under-display Face ID may still face technical challenges, including reduced brightness, lower contrast, and impaired facial recognition in low-light environments.

iPhone 17e brings Dynamic Island to budget users

Meanwhile, the iPhone 17e, expected in the first half of 2026, is positioned as a more accessible iPhone for general users.

Leaked details suggest that Apple will bring the Dynamic Island to this lower-cost model, replacing the outdated notch design of previous SE variants. This design upgrade will offer a more modern look that aligns with Apple’s flagship lines.

However, the iPhone 17e is expected to maintain a standard 60Hz display refresh rate. Apple’s ProMotion 120Hz technology will likely remain exclusive to higher-end models, having only recently expanded to standard iPhones in 2025.

This means the iPhone 17e will offer a premium appearance, but with basic display performance to keep costs down and battery life optimized.

A strategic year of refinement, not revolution

Although Digital Chat Station is a familiar name in the tech leak community, Weibo-based sources often compile unverified reports or recycle existing rumors.

So while features like under-display Face ID and Dynamic Island for iPhone 17e seem plausible, they remain speculative until confirmed by supply chain evidence or more reputable sources.

Still, if these leaks are accurate, 2026 will be a year where Apple focuses on refining current designs rather than pursuing radical innovation. The iPhone 18 Pro will advance display technology, while the iPhone 17e offers a smarter choice for mainstream users.

Hai Phong