iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max to Feature Dual Modem System
Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are set to feature a dual modem system, as revealed by leaked schematics from a cyberattack on supplier Tata. In the United States, these models will rely on Qualcomm modems, primarily due to their compatibility with mmWave 5G technology, which Apple's in-house modems currently do not support. Conversely, international versions of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will be equipped with Apple's own C2 modem.
This decision marks a continuation of Apple's strategy, as seen in the iPhone 17 series, where the iPhone 17e and iPhone Air utilized Apple modems, while the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max employed Qualcomm modems. Notably, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max may also introduce eSIM support in China, a significant shift from the current models that offer two physical SIM card slots without eSIM capabilities.
In addition to the modem changes, the leaked documents indicate that the iPhone 18 Pro will feature an upgraded camera system. The new model is expected to incorporate a custom-developed Sony IMX905 sensor, identified by a new sensor ID of 0x905, compared to the 0x903 used in the iPhone 17 Pro. This aligns with previous rumors suggesting that the upcoming Pro models would include a main camera with variable aperture capabilities, enhancing photographic versatility for users.