Summary
- Leaked documents reportedly linked to iPhone 18 Pro prototypes reveal new hardware details.
- The US model may use a Qualcomm modem for mmWave 5G support.
- Other markets could receive Apple’s own C2 modem.
- The A20 Pro chip may move to a new WMCM packaging approach.
- The main camera could feature a new custom Sony IMX-905 sensor.
A new leak suggests that the iPhone 18 Pro could launch with different modem hardware depending on the market, a redesigned A20 Pro chip package and an upgraded main camera.
Documents reportedly linked to Tata, an Apple supplier, reveal technical details about prototype iPhone 18 Pro devices, including references to Qualcomm modem hardware for the US and Apple’s own C2 modem for other regions.
The information matters because it suggests Apple may continue its gradual transition to in-house modems, while still relying on Qualcomm where mmWave 5G support is required.
Different modem depending on the market
According to the leaked information, Apple appears to be considering a split modem strategy for the iPhone 18 Pro. The US version is said to use Qualcomm hardware in order to support mmWave 5G, a technology that remains relevant in the American market.
By contrast, versions for other markets are expected to use Apple’s C2 modem. The key issue appears to be that this modem still does not support mmWave, forcing Apple to keep a different technical approach depending on the region.
The documents also mention different logic board identifiers for versions with and without mmWave, reinforcing the possibility of separate hardware variants.
A20 Pro with new packaging
The leak also refers to the A20 Pro, the chip expected to power Apple’s next Pro models. The chip is reportedly codenamed Borneo and may use a different packaging technology.
Instead of the existing InFo-PoP approach, Apple appears to be exploring WMCM, with separate dies placed side by side. This could give the company more flexibility in chip design and device configurations.
At the same time, such a change could affect thermal behavior, logic board layout and repairability, although there are no final conclusions at this stage.
New main camera with Sony sensor
The leaked diagnostic data reportedly shows a change in the main camera sensor identifier. This points to a new custom Sony IMX-905 sensor, which could replace the IMX-903.
This change is connected to earlier rumors about a possible variable aperture for the main camera. Such a feature would give Apple greater control over depth of field and light management, reducing reliance on heavy computational processing in some scenarios.
For now, the information concerns prototypes and not a final commercial product, so the specifications may change before the official launch.
Possible change for China
Another interesting detail concerns the Chinese market. The documents leave open the possibility of eSIM support, which would represent a change for Apple in China, where iPhones have so far relied mainly on physical SIM cards.
If confirmed, this would be a notable shift in Apple’s strategy, although it is not yet clear whether the change will make it to production models.
What we think
The leak suggests that the iPhone 18 Pro could be one of Apple’s most interesting technical steps in recent years, not necessarily because of its external design, but because of its internal changes. Apple’s gradual move away from third-party suppliers, especially for modems, appears to continue, but the company seems ready to move carefully where its own technology is not yet complete.
Frequently asked questions
Will the iPhone 18 Pro use an Apple modem?
According to the leak, versions outside the US may use Apple’s C2 modem, while the US version is said to rely on Qualcomm hardware.
Why might Apple use Qualcomm in the US?
The likely reason is mmWave 5G support, which remains important in the US market and does not appear to be supported by the C2 modem yet.
What changes with the A20 Pro?
The A20 Pro is reportedly moving to a new WMCM packaging technology, with a different arrangement of individual dies compared with previous solutions.
What is new in the camera?
The main camera may use a new custom Sony IMX-905 sensor, potentially linked to earlier rumors about variable aperture.
Are the details final?
No. The information comes from a leak involving prototype devices and may change before the final release.
