A new research note from Jeff Pu of GF Securities outlines five major upgrades expected in Apple’s upcoming Pro smartphones later this year. The report highlights design, camera, and silicon advancements that could mark one of the most significant Pro refresh cycles in recent years.
According to Pu, the devices will feature a smaller Dynamic Island thanks to Face ID hardware moving beneath the display. Specifically, the flood illuminator component will reportedly shift under the screen, reducing the visible cutout area and delivering a cleaner front design. This change aligns with Apple’s broader push toward a more immersive, uninterrupted display experience.
Camera improvements are also expected to play a central role. The main sensor is rumored to remain at 48 megapixels but gain variable aperture technology. This would allow the camera to physically adjust how much light enters the lens, improving low-light performance and offering more control over depth of field. The feature could bring iPhone photography closer to professional camera flexibility, particularly for portrait and night shooting.
On the performance side, the Pro models are tipped to debut Apple’s A20 Pro processor, reportedly manufactured using TSMC’s first-generation 2nm process. The chip is also said to use a new packaging design, which may enhance efficiency, thermal management, and overall performance. Alongside the main processor, a new N2 connectivity chip is expected to replace the current wireless solution, potentially delivering improvements in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and low-power networking performance.
Another notable change involves Apple’s in-house modem strategy. The upcoming C2 modem is expected to appear in the Pro lineup, expanding Apple’s custom modem technology beyond limited earlier deployments. This move signals Apple’s continued effort to reduce reliance on third-party modem suppliers while improving power efficiency and cellular performance.
The new Pro devices are anticipated to launch in September alongside the long-rumored iPhone Fold, while standard models may follow in a later release cycle.