It has been claimed that Apple will not use the same modem solution in all markets for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models. The diagrams and documents, which were stated to have emerged after the cyber attack on Tata, one of the company’s suppliers, show that the new Pro models will be offered for sale with different modems depending on the region. Accordingly, while Qualcomm modem continues to be used in the USA, a switch to Apple’s own developed C2 modem is expected in many other markets.
According to the claim, the main reason why Apple made this distinction is mmWave 5G support. While Qualcomm modems have supported mmWave connection for a long time, it is stated that modems developed by Apple do not yet have this feature. It is stated that due to the widespread use of mmWave infrastructure in the USA, the company will continue to prefer the Qualcomm solution in this market. On the other hand, in countries where mmWave support is more limited, it is considered that Apple aims to reduce its dependence on Qualcomm by using its own modem.
The new camera sensor in the iPhone 18 Pro series is also on the agenda
Looking at the current product family, it seems that Apple is carrying out the modem transition gradually. While the iPhone 17e and iPhone Air models feature Apple-signed modems, the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max models continue to use Qualcomm modems. The new leak indicates that this transition process may be carried forward with the iPhone 18 Pro series.
Another noteworthy detail in the documents is about the Chinese market. Allegedly, Apple plans to introduce eSIM support in China for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models. To date, the company has included two physical SIM card slots instead of eSIM in the iPhone models it sold in China. If this information turns out to be true, Apple will offer eSIM support on Pro models in China for the first time. However, it is not yet clear to what extent this change will be supported by all operators.
Leaked documents also point to a new hardware update on the camera side. The 0x905 sensor ID listed for the iPhone 18 Pro indicates that a new main camera sensor will be used, compared to the 0x903 ID used on the iPhone 17 Pro. It is claimed that this sensor may be the IMX905 model developed by Sony specifically for Apple.
In addition, other recent claims suggest that the main camera of the iPhone 18 Pro series will feature a variable aperture system. Such a system could improve both low-light performance and depth of field control, allowing for more flexible shooting in different lighting conditions. Apple has not yet made any official statement regarding the iPhone 18 series. Therefore, all details about the modem, camera and eSIM support are limited to leaks and information from the supply chain for now.