Leakers Dispel Punch-Hole Selfie Camera Rumours for iPhone 18
Recent speculation about a radical design change for the Apple iPhone 18, specifically the addition of a punch-hole selfie camera in the top-left corner of the display, has been firmly challenged by two reliable leakers. Instant Digital and Schrödinger have both come forward to clarify that these claims are inaccurate, suggesting instead that Apple will opt for a more subtle design evolution rather than a drastic overhaul.
Instant Digital, a well-known Weibo-based tipster, labelled the reports of a left-side punch-hole front camera as “complete misinformation.” According to their investigation, the confusion arose from a mistranslation by an English-language media outlet that misinterpreted the under-display infrared sensor as a camera. Instant Digital emphasised that the iPhone 18 Pro will feature an under-display infrared sensor on the left side, but not a camera cutout.
What the Leaks Say About the iPhone 18’s Front-Facing Sensors
Schrödinger, another respected source on X (formerly Twitter), added further detail by explaining that the flood illuminator and infrared camera will be relocated beneath the display in the top-left corner. Meanwhile, the Dot Projector, which is part of Face ID technology, and the selfie camera will remain housed within the Dynamic Island at the top centre of the screen. This arrangement is expected to result in a smaller Dynamic Island, enhancing the device’s aesthetics without abandoning the feature entirely.
The iPhone is not getting a side camera cutout, I’ve made my final request and here are the results: The Flood Illuminator (IR) and Infrared Camera stay under the display while the Dot Projector and selfie camera stay visible thus enhancing a smaller dynamic island system. pic.twitter.com/dbaReq8Dh7 — Schrödinger (@phonefuturist) January 19, 2026
Contrasting Earlier Reports and Design Expectations
These clarifications contradict earlier rumours from sources like Front Page Tech, The Information’s Wayne Ma, and Weibo-based Smart Pikachu, who had suggested that Apple might introduce a punch-hole selfie camera on the top-left of the iPhone 18’s display. Some reports even speculated that Apple would abandon the Dynamic Island altogether in favour of a single punch-hole cutout for a cleaner look. However, the latest insights indicate Apple will retain the Dynamic Island, albeit in a smaller form factor, while integrating some Face ID components under the display.
Key Specifications of the iPhone 18 Lineup
Beyond design, the iPhone 18 series is expected to bring several noteworthy upgrades. Powered by the new A20 Pro chip, manufactured using TSMC’s advanced 2nm process, the devices will benefit from enhanced performance and efficiency. The Pro model will feature a 6.3-inch display, while the Pro Max will sport a larger 6.9-inch screen.
Camera improvements are significant, with the Pro and Pro Max models boasting an 18MP 6P front camera, a 48MP 7P main sensor with variable aperture, a 48MP periscope telephoto lens, and a 48MP 6P ultra-wide sensor. The casing for the Pro models will switch to aluminium, and the devices will include Apple’s C2 modem alongside 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM.
Additional features include support for 5G-based satellite connectivity and a new burgundy colour option. Apple is also expected to simplify the camera control button by removing the capacitive induction layer and retaining only a pressure-sensing layer. The launch schedule appears to be staggered, with releases planned between autumn 2026 and spring 2027.
Looking Ahead
With credible leakers dispelling the punch-hole selfie camera rumours, it seems Apple is refining rather than revolutionising the iPhone 18’s design. Fans should watch for official announcements regarding the smaller Dynamic Island and the impressive camera and chipset upgrades. The staggered launch timeline also suggests Apple is carefully pacing the rollout of its next-generation flagship devices.