iPhone 18 Said to Keep Same Design as Apple Pushes Ahead With iPhone Air 2

Apple's standard iPhone 18 is expected to look nearly identical to the current model, keeping its existing design even as the higher-end Pro and foldable versions move toward more significant physical changes.



Supply chain source Fixed Focus Digital reports on Weibo that the standard tier will not get a visual overhaul this year. Aside from a possible slight change in dimensions, the exterior is said to remain largely unchanged. This would suggest that high-end display refinements, such as the shrunken Dynamic Island, will remain exclusive to the Pro and Pro Max for another cycle.


The lack of design changes for the base model comes as Apple is also said to be considering a split release schedule. Under that plan, Apple would prioritize its more expensive hardware this fall while potentially holding the standard iPhone 18 until early 2027.

The same source also claims Apple is pushing ahead with a second generation of the ultra-thin "Air" model. Despite data showing the first iteration struggled to find an audience, the company is reportedly planning a "normal" update for the iPhone Air 2. The idea is to give the new form factor at least two generations to prove itself before making a longer-term decision.

This follows a stretch of conflicting reports suggesting the ultra-thin device could be delayed or shelved after capturing only a low single-digit share of the market in its debut year. If today's leak is accurate, the iPhone Air 2 remains on the 2026 roadmap, likely retaining a display size similar to the current 6.5-inch model, with its ultra-thin design continuing to serve as the main differentiator from the standard iPhone.