Four advantages iPhone 18 Pro will have over the iPhone Ultra

Apple is set to unveil two new flagship iPhones: the iPhone 18 Pro and the iPhone Ultra. While price is likely to be a major factor, there are several other ways the iPhone 18 Pro will outshine its more expensive counterpart. One of the most significant differences is expected to be in the camera department. The iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to receive a major upgrade to its Main camera, including a variable aperture feature.

This technology, which has been rumored for some time, could revolutionize Portrait mode and provide unprecedented control over depth of field. Low-light photography could also benefit greatly from this upgrade.

Variable aperture technology requires larger components than the current Main camera, which may explain why the ultra-thin iPhone Ultra might miss out on this feature. In contrast, the iPhone Ultra will likely continue to offer solid battery life, but the Pro line – especially the iPhone 18 Pro Max – is expected to lead the pack in terms of battery endurance.

The Pro Max is rumored to have a 10% larger physical battery than its predecessor, along with efficiency gains in the A20 Pro and C2 chips, promising the best battery life ever in an iPhone.

Another notable difference is the authentication method. For the first time in years, the iPhone Ultra will rely on Touch ID, while the iPhone 18 Pro will stick with the Face ID system that has been around for nearly a decade. Apple reportedly couldn't fit Face ID components into the ultra-thin design of the Ultra, requiring double the components – one for the outer display and another for the inner one. As a result, the iPhone 18 Pro will offer a clear advantage in this department.

The Telephoto camera is another area where the iPhone 18 Pro will likely have an edge over the Ultra. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are rumored to be the only models that will feature a Telephoto camera with improved optical zoom capabilities. This could be a significant selling point for users who rely on the Telephoto for various purposes. Meanwhile, the iPhone Ultra will only have Main and Ultra Wide cameras, potentially leaving a gap for those who value this feature.

While iPhone Ultra's unique form factor might appeal to some, many may find the traditional iPhone design of the iPhone 18 Pro more appealing. The foldable design of the Ultra, with its sizes and shapes that feel foreign to the standard iPhone, could be an adjustment for the average consumer. For those who prefer the classic iPhone experience, the iPhone 18 Pro will undoubtedly be the preferred choice.

Ultimately, while iPhone Ultra will undoubtedly be a unique and innovative device, the iPhone 18 Pro appears to have a compelling case for many users, offering a superior camera system, longer battery life, and the familiar and trusted Face ID authentication method.