iPhone 18 Pro: Three new design updates are coming this year

Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to launch this fall with several notable design changes that address feedback from the current generation. According to recent leaks and rumors, the upcoming Pro models will feature three significant design updates that could reshape the premium iPhone experience.

Unified rear glass and aluminum colors

One of the most talked-about design elements of the iPhone 17 Pro has been its two-tone rear glass and aluminum construction. While the full-width camera plateau has been well-received, the color contrast between the glass back and aluminum frame has divided opinions among users.

Weibo leaker Instant Digital recently reported that Apple plans to address this with the iPhone 18 Pro series. The upcoming models will feature a redesigned back glass that minimizes the color difference between the glass and aluminum back panel, creating a more seamless, unified look.

This change is particularly welcome for users who found the two-tone aesthetic jarring. The unified design approach would create a more cohesive appearance that flows naturally from the glass to the metal frame, potentially making the device feel more premium and intentional in its design language.

Dynamic Island shrinks by 35%

The front design of the iPhone 18 Pro has been a subject of much speculation. While screen sizes between Pro and Pro Max models are expected to remain consistent with their predecessors, the front cutout has been a major question mark.

Contrary to earlier rumors suggesting a hole-punch cutout might replace the Dynamic Island, the latest evidence points toward a smaller Dynamic Island design instead. Reports indicate the new Dynamic Island will be approximately 35% smaller on both iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models.

This reduction in size comes from moving some Face ID components under the display, though not all of them. The decision to maintain the Dynamic Island rather than switch to a hole-punch design suggests Apple sees value in the interactive functionality it provides, even as they work to minimize its visual footprint.

The smaller Dynamic Island represents a middle ground between maintaining Face ID functionality and reducing the display interruption, which should appeal to users who appreciate the feature but want more screen real estate.

Bold new color options continue

Apple surprised many with the iPhone 17 Pro's bold color choices, particularly the Cosmic Orange variant, which has proven to be extremely popular. This success appears to have validated Apple's strategy of moving beyond basic black, white, and gray options for its Pro lineup.

According to Instant Digital, Apple has tested three new colors for the iPhone 18 Pro series:

• Coffee Brown
• Purple
• Burgundy

However, the leaker clarified that not all of these colors will necessarily make it to market. Apple may select only one or more from this test group, leaving room for potential surprises.

There's also speculation about whether Apple will continue the Cosmic Orange momentum with a new shade of orange. For users who prefer more traditional options, the outlook is less certain. Instant Digital expressed doubt about the availability of a black option, stating "Looks like there won't be a black one next year."

This bold color strategy represents a significant shift in Apple's Pro lineup, acknowledging that premium users want more personality and expression in their devices. The success of Cosmic Orange suggests Apple has tapped into a desire for more distinctive options beyond the safe, neutral tones that dominated previous generations.

What these changes mean for users

These three design updates collectively address some of the most common feedback from iPhone 17 Pro users. The unified rear design eliminates a visual inconsistency that bothered some users, the smaller Dynamic Island maximizes usable screen space while maintaining functionality, and the continued bold color options give users more ways to personalize their premium devices.

For developers and accessory manufacturers, these changes will require some adaptation. The smaller Dynamic Island may affect how apps utilize that space, while the unified rear design could impact the fit and appearance of certain cases and accessories. The color options, while primarily aesthetic, may influence purchasing decisions and accessory color coordination.

As we approach the fall launch, more details will likely emerge about these design changes and any additional features Apple has planned for the iPhone 18 Pro series. The focus on refining existing design elements rather than radical overhauls suggests Apple is taking a mature approach to evolution, building on what works while addressing specific pain points identified by users.