Apple has unveiled the iPhones 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max with 48MP variable-aperture camera, A20 Pro and next-gen thermals, bringing major upgrades to the cameras, processor, battery system, and display experience.
The new Pro models also introduce a redesigned thermal architecture aimed at keeping their performance high during demanding workloads.
The phones feature Apple’s new A20 Pro chip, a 48MP Fusion Main camera with variable aperture, and a next-generation vapor chamber. The iPhone 18 Pro Max also gets Apple’s largest battery-life increase yet.
Preorders open September 12, with both models reaching stores on September 18. Buyers can choose from black, silver, glacier, and the new burgundy finish.
Apple has added variable aperture to the 48MP Fusion Main camera for the first time. A six-blade mechanism can adjust between four aperture settings.
The system can automatically respond to lighting and depth-of-field requirements. Users can also control the aperture manually through the Camera app.
A new imaging pipeline aims to improve detail and low-light photography. Apple has also expanded its Photographic Styles with additional texture and grain controls.
While video creators also get several upgrades, cinematic effects can now be applied after recording at up to 60 frames per second.
The phones can also capture 4K Dolby Vision HDR footage in Time-lapse mode. New Audio Mix algorithms further improve voice isolation and music handling.
