Apple’s autumn iPhone series this year is speculated to center around the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra. Below are the three major feature distinctions—not including cost—that might impact your upgrade choice.
## Form factor: Conventional vs foldable
This distinction is the most apparent, yet it’s important to mention as it also holds the most weight.
iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will maintain the same fundamental form factor that the iPhone has featured for years. They are rumored to retain the identical screen size and overall look as their forerunners. If you prefer a classic iPhone experience, iPhone 18 Pro will be your ideal option.
On the other hand, iPhone Ultra will mark Apple’s inaugural foldable model. This represents a dramatically different form factor, with an outer display that is shorter and wider compared to a conventional iPhone, and an inner display that mimics an iPad mini.
## Cameras: Pro will continue to be the top choice
Apple has consistently included its finest, most groundbreaking camera technology in its Pro models. This trend is set to persist this year.
iPhone Ultra is anticipated to provide many of the same camera capabilities as iPhone 18 Pro, with one major exception: it will lack a Telephoto camera.
Speculation suggests that iPhone Ultra will still feature the same Main, Ultra Wide, and front cameras as the Pro series. However, the Telephoto lens will be exclusive to the Pro model and is expected to undergo improvements this year.
## Performance: A20 Pro chip in both, but materials are crucial
Both iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra are expected to be equipped with the same A20 Pro chip. Nevertheless, the performance level may vary slightly due to design and material differences.
iPhone 18 Pro will utilize the same aluminum unibody design as iPhone 17 Pro and will also include a vapor chamber for cooling. These modifications resulted in improved overall performance for iPhone 17 Pro compared to its predecessor, as the device can maintain cooler temperatures during demanding tasks.
Conversely, iPhone Ultra will boast a sleek titanium-based design similar to the iPhone Air and is not anticipated to incorporate a vapor chamber. Thus, while it will have the same chip, it might show lower performance when exposed to sunlight or during high-intensity tasks.
Are you considering whether to choose an iPhone 18 Pro or an iPhone Ultra? What differences will affect your decision? Share your thoughts in the comments.