5 biggest iPhone 18 rumors rated — what to really expect at next week's Apple event

Here are the 5 biggest iPhone 18 rumors rated with an assessment of their likelihood of becoming reality:

1. The foldable iPhone Ultra will finally launch

The foldable iPhone Ultra could resemble the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, featuring a passport-style design with a 7.8-inch foldable screen and a 5.5-inch cover display. While the phone may support MagSafe, it's unlikely to include a stylus at launch. Given the long-standing rumors and multiple recent leaks, this iPhone Ultra is almost certain to launch this year, with a likelihood of 9/10.

2. No standard iPhone 18 until next year

Apple's base model iPhone 18 may not be launched until March or April, potentially alongside the iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2. This would mark a significant departure from the usual launch pattern, but the widespread leaks in support of this rumor make it plausible. Likelihood is rated at 8/10.

3. A camera with a variable aperture

Speculations suggest that either the iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max, or both, may feature a camera with a variable aperture, enabling control over depth of field and better low-light performance. While multiple sources have hinted at this possibility, the lack of detailed information has left this rumor with a likelihood of 7/10.

4. Bigger batteries

Leaks from Digital Chat Station claim that the iPhone 18 Pro will feature a 4,288mAh battery, and the Pro Max a 5,567mAh battery in the U.S. market. Although Apple typically ups battery capacity with newer models, the claimed increase for the Pro Max is particularly surprising and unverified. Therefore, this rumor has a lower likelihood of 6/10.

5. New designs

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max could adopt a more unified appearance on the rear, with a monochrome metal frame and glass panel. Additionally, the Dynamic Island may be downsized to around 13.5mm, compared to the current 20.7mm. Both design changes seem plausible based on leaks and CAD renders, garnering a likelihood rating of 7/10.