Apple will shrink its signature Dynamic Island display cutout by 35 percent in this fall's iPhone 18 Pro models, according to new prototype images and screen protector leaks. The reduction marks Apple's first major redesign of the feature since its 2022 introduction, even as technical hurdles reportedly delay plans for a completely under-display Face ID system.
New images shared by leaker "Majin Bu" show an alleged iPhone 18 Pro prototype with a noticeably smaller Dynamic Island cutout compared to current iPhone 17 Pro models. Screen protectors matching the design have already entered production, suggesting manufacturers have high confidence in the upcoming change.
The current iPhone lineup reveals Apple's tiered approach to display technology. While most models include Dynamic Island functionality, the budget iPhone 17e retains a traditional notch design instead of Dynamic Island. Only Pro models feature ProMotion displays with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. The $599 iPhone 17e remains Apple's entry-level option with basic features and a standard 60Hz display.
Technical challenges with under-display Face ID sensors appear to have extended the Dynamic Island's lifespan beyond initial expectations. Chinese sources claim Apple continues working on moving TrueDepth camera components beneath the screen but faces performance hurdles that prevent immediate implementation.
Apple reportedly plans a split-cycle launch strategy for its next generation of smartphones. The company will announce iPhone 18 Pro models alongside its first foldable iPhone this fall, with standard iPhone 18 variants arriving early next year.
This staggered approach could help manage production complexity across multiple new form factors. The shrinking Dynamic Island represents an intermediate step toward Apple's ultimate goal of a completely uninterrupted display.
Previous rumors suggested Face ID components would move under-screen first, leaving only a small punch-hole camera visible before eventually achieving true all-screen design. Screen protector manufacturers have begun producing accessories for the smaller cutout design, indicating supply chain confidence in the upcoming change.
Multiple leakers including Ice Universe report the reduced Dynamic Island will appear across the full iPhone 18 lineup, not just Pro models.
Apple continues developing its broader ecosystem alongside smartphone improvements. The company seeded iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 betas to developers earlier this week, though major Apple Intelligence Siri features may wait until iOS 27 arrives later this year.
