iPhone 18 Rumours: Standard iPhone May Finally Get the 48MP Ultrawide Sensor — Or Will Apple Delay It Until the iPhone 19?

Apple's iPhone 18 is already making headlines long before its expected arrival. The company is tipped to unveil the new series in September 2026, with Pro and foldable models leading the launch.

However, reports suggest the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e could arrive later in March 2027, which would mark a major change from Apple's usual September tradition. One of the most talked-about rumours involves a possible 48MP ultrawide sensor finally coming to the standard iPhone.

Yet, some sources claim this long-awaited upgrade may not happen until the iPhone 19. The uncertainty has left fans eager for answers on what Apple will truly deliver.

iPhone 18 Standard Model Could Have 48MP Ultrawide Sensor

Leaks indicate that Apple may equip the standard iPhone 18 with a 48MP ultrawide camera sensor. Until now, this feature has been exclusive to Pro models. If included, it could transform photography on Apple's base devices.

According to The Econo Times, the sensor will be a Samsung-supplied 1/2.6-inch 48MP three-layer stacked CMOS unit. This design would allow faster readout speeds, stronger low-light performance, and reduced rolling shutter problems.

Such an upgrade would be significant, closing the quality gap between standard and Pro models. Yet uncertainty remains. Industry sources warn Apple could push the feature back to iPhone 19, leaving non-Pro users disappointed once more.

If delayed, it may signal Apple's strategy of keeping high-end features exclusive for longer.

Other Four Upgrades for iPhone 18

Alongside the ultrawide camera rumours, several other upgrades are expected to headline the iPhone 18 lineup.

2nm A-Series Chip

The Pro models may debut Apple's long-awaited 2nm A20 Pro chip, as per Tech Advisor. After years of speculation, this new processor is said to bring faster performance, greater efficiency, and longer battery life. It could also enhance multitasking with more transistors packed into the chip.

C2 Modem and Battery Enhancements

Apple is reportedly preparing its C2 modem for iPhone 18. This upgrade would follow the earlier C1 version and is expected to improve efficiency while boosting 5G performance. Stronger battery management is also likely, which may reduce dependence on external suppliers such as Qualcomm.

Refined Face ID & Display

Under-display Face ID is not expected yet. Instead, iPhone 18 models may feature a narrower Dynamic Island pill design. This refinement points towards Apple improving the experience without fully hiding Face ID beneath the screen, which may come in future devices like iPhone 19 or later.

New Design & Camera Bar Continuity

Design changes for the iPhone 18 may focus on refinement rather than transformation. The aluminium unibody and full-width camera bar from iPhone 17 Pro models are expected to remain. A new transparent finish for the glass back has also been suggested, giving the phones a subtle update while retaining their recognisable look.

Is iPhone 18 Worth the Wait?

The iPhone 18 Pro and foldable models are expected in September 2026, but the standard iPhone 18 could slip to March 2027. If the 48MP ultrawide sensor does arrive, it would represent one of the biggest leaps for Apple's base models in recent years. However, if Apple holds back until iPhone 19, many buyers may prefer to wait longer or choose Pro models instead.

What is clear is that iPhone 18 will mark one of Apple's most unpredictable launches yet. With new chips, stronger cameras, and updated design refinements, it promises important progress. Yet, the uncertainty over the standard model's upgrades and release date leaves Apple fans watching closely for confirmation.