iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and Fold to Feature A20 Pro, 12GB RAM, and Apple C2 Modem [Report]

Apple's high-end iPhone models could look far more uniform in 2026, with new details pointing to shared silicon, memory, and modem upgrades across the lineup. According to a research note from GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu, seen by iClarified, the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and Fold are all expected to feature Apple's A20 Pro chip, 12GB of RAM, and the C2 baseband.



According to the forecast, the entire high-end lineup, including the new foldable, will be powered by the A20 Pro chip. This processor is expected to be manufactured using TSMC's next-generation 2-nanometer (N2) process and utilize a WMCM (Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module) packaging method. To support advanced edge AI computing, Apple is reportedly standardizing memory across these devices, equipping the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and Fold with 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM.


The report also indicates that Apple is ready to expand its in-house modem efforts. All three premium models are listed with the Apple C2 baseband chip, moving further away from Qualcomm components. This aligns with previous reports that Apple's second-generation modem would be ready for the 2026 cycle.

Camera changes are expected on the Pro models. The iPhone 18 Pro (6.3-inch) and Pro Max (6.9-inch) are expected to feature a 48MP main camera with a variable aperture (VA), offering greater control over depth of field and light intake. They are also listed with a 48MP periscope telephoto lens, a 48MP ultra-wide camera, and an 18MP front-facing camera.

Pu also expects Apple to further refine the front-facing design on its Pro models. The report points to a smaller Dynamic Island in 2026, while noting a low likelihood that Apple will move to under-display Face ID during this product cycle.

For the iPhone 18 Fold, Pu outlines a device with a 7.8-inch internal display and a cover screen smaller than 5.3 inches. The chart suggests this model will skip Face ID, opting instead for Touch ID, likely integrated into a side button to preserve a slim design. The chassis is described as a combination of titanium and aluminum.


While the focus is on next year's hardware, Pu also shared updated insights into Apple's near-term production outlook. Driven by resilient demand for the iPhone 17, the firm has raised its build estimates for the first quarter of 2026 from 56 million to 59 million units. This increase comes as Pu trims his forecast for global smartphone shipments to a 4 percent decline in 2026, citing rising memory costs that are weighing most heavily on low- and mid-range Android vendors.

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