The iPhone 17 series hasn’t even hit the market, and reports about the upcoming models are already increasing, particularly in terms of aesthetics. A few days ago, a source mentioned that the iPhone 18 will sport a more compact Dynamic Island. This week, another insider suggested that Apple intends to utilize the iPhone 17 Pro design for next year’s iPhone 18 Pro variants, but hinted that the 2026 Pro models will showcase a more translucent section on the rear, where the Ceramic Shield glass conceals the MagSafe magnets and aluminum framework seen in the current version.
According to Digital Chat Station, a Weibo leaker with over three million followers known for past accurate iPhone predictions, Apple is actively developing the design for the iPhone 18. The iPhone 18 Pro models are anticipated to maintain a similar horizontal camera platform and a triple-lens camera configuration on the rear. Furthermore, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to be about the same size as their predecessors, with Apple likely keeping the 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch displays intact.
Nonetheless, the leaker notes that the phone’s back cover will adopt a slightly see-through design. Another interesting aspect is a detail concerning the vapor chamber that Apple introduced this year, which is laser-welded to the aluminum framework. The iPhone 18 Pro models might feature vapor chambers crafted from stainless steel.
Will the iPhone 18 Pro be see-through?
The transparency aspect certainly stands out as the most intriguing point in an otherwise credible report. The inclusion of stainless steel for the vapor chamber is also an intriguing assertion. It’s premature to determine why Apple would opt to alter the existing design. Yet, Apple may simply be experimenting with various prototypes before finalizing a design.
From the moment Apple unveiled the new Pro models, the iPhone 17 Pro design has sparked mixed opinions. Some users disliked the large, horizontal camera platform, while others were not fond of the striking orange color choice. The Pros are also equipped with a new aluminum chassis, which presents a two-tone look on the back. Additionally, the metal curves toward the back to connect with the Ceramic Shield glass that covers the lower two-thirds. The glass ensures that wireless charging capabilities, including MagSafe support, remain intact. However, some users were not fans of Apple’s new clear cases for the iPhone 17 series, which feature a white section enveloping the entire Ceramic Shield area.
Transforming that Ceramic Shield panel into a slightly transparent cover might be just as contentious, though some users may find the transparency appealing. Should Apple utilize the same aluminum chassis for the iPhone 18 Pros, a transparent Ceramic Shield glass could reveal sections of the chassis, the vapor chamber, and the MagSafe ring of magnets. However, it’s probable that not all customers would favor a transparent design. While these designs are still hypothetical, some individuals have previously created transparent iPhone 16 Pros.
Apple’s introduction video for the iPhone 17 Pro below showcases the design for this year’s Pro models, highlighting the internal components.
