
Apple’s biggest iPhone reveal of the year is now just days away, and a fresh iPhone 18 Pro Max leak has given fans an early look at one of the most talked-about changes: its new Dark Cherry finish. A leaked hands-on video reportedly shows a demo unit alongside a blue iPhone 18 Pro.
The footage adds weight to recent reports about Apple’s 2026 Pro color lineup, although the devices remain unofficial. Beyond the new finishes, the iPhone 18 Pro series is expected to bring a more efficient A20 Pro chip, larger batteries, camera upgrades and potentially a variable-aperture system.
Leaked Video Shows iPhone 18 Pro Max in Dark Cherry
The latest footage comes from Korean leaker yeux1122 and reportedly shows two iPhone 18 Pro demo units in what appears to be a retail environment.
One device is identified as the iPhone 18 Pro Max in Dark Cherry, while the smaller iPhone 18 Pro appears in a noticeably brighter blue shade. The footage is significant because it follows several earlier leaks pointing toward the same colors.
However, these are reportedly demo units rather than confirmed retail devices. Apple could still make minor changes before the phones officially reach stores.
Dark Cherry Could Become Apple’s New Hero Color
Dark Cherry is shaping up to be the most recognizable color of the 2026 Pro lineup.
The shade has also been described as Burgundy or a deep red tone. Several leaks suggest Apple intends to use it as this generation’s signature Pro color, following the role played by Cosmic Orange on the iPhone 17 Pro.
The blue model is equally interesting. Recent reports have referred to it as Sky Blue or Light Blue, suggesting Apple could be moving toward softer, more distinctive colors instead of repeating the darker finishes used in previous generations.
iPhone 18 Pro Series Expected Color Options
Color leaks have not been completely consistent. Some reports point to Dark Cherry, Sky Blue and Black, while leaked SIM trays have suggested Dark Cherry, Sky Blue and Silver.
That makes the final third color one of the remaining mysteries Apple could settle at its September 9 event.
| Expected Specification | iPhone 18 Pro | iPhone 18 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Expected Launch | September 9, 2026 | September 9, 2026 |
| Display | ProMotion OLED, rumored LTPO+ | ProMotion OLED, rumored LTPO+ |
| Design | Similar to iPhone 17 Pro | Similar to iPhone 17 Pro |
| Dynamic Island | Expected to remain, potentially smaller | Expected to remain, potentially smaller |
| Processor | Apple A20 Pro | Apple A20 Pro |
| Manufacturing | Rumored 2nm process | Rumored 2nm process |
| Main Camera | New-generation sensor | New-generation sensor |
| Variable Aperture | Rumored | Rumored, potentially exclusive |
| Telephoto | Upgraded system expected | Upgraded system expected |
| Ultra-Wide | No major change rumored | No major change rumored |
| Front Camera | Upgrade not confirmed | Upgrade not confirmed |
| Battery | Larger than predecessor expected | Larger battery strongly rumored |
| Modem | New Apple modem possible | New Apple modem possible |
| Colors | Dark Cherry, Sky Blue, third option uncertain | Dark Cherry, Sky Blue, third option uncertain |
| Software | iOS 26 | iOS 26 |
| Price | Expected to increase | Expected to increase |
Specifications marked as rumored or expected remain unconfirmed until Apple officially announces the phones.
Design May Not Change Dramatically
If the leaked units are representative of the final hardware, Apple appears to be keeping the overall iPhone 17 Pro design rather than introducing a major visual overhaul.
That could make the new finishes especially important. The rumored Dark Cherry treatment gives the Pro Max a substantially different appearance without requiring Apple to redesign the chassis. Current reports also suggest the camera area could become slightly thicker because of the new camera hardware.
A Smaller Dynamic Island Could Be Coming
Another rumored change is a smaller Dynamic Island. Earlier speculation suggested Apple could eventually move Face ID components underneath the display, but current reporting indicates that a completely hidden Face ID system is unlikely for this generation.
So, the iPhone 18 Pro may look familiar from a distance while still receiving several smaller hardware refinements.
A20 Pro Could Be the Bigger Upgrade Underneath
The design may remain familiar, but the internal hardware is expected to move forward considerably.
The Apple A20 Pro is widely rumored to be based on a more advanced 2nm manufacturing process. The combination of a newer chip and improved display efficiency could deliver better performance while reducing power consumption.
That matters because Apple is reportedly increasing battery capacity at the same time.
iPhone 18 Pro Max Battery Could Get a Major Boost
The iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumored to receive a battery around 5,567mAh, which would represent a substantial capacity increase if the leak proves accurate. Apple could pair that larger cell with the efficiency gains from its next-generation processor and display technology.
The result could be one of the biggest battery-life improvements Apple has delivered to a Pro Max model in several generations.
The larger battery could also explain rumors that the new Pro Max will be slightly thicker and heavier than its predecessor.
Variable Aperture Could Be the Camera Headliner
The most intriguing camera rumor involves a variable-aperture main camera.
Unlike the fixed aperture used by recent iPhones, a variable system could mechanically adjust how much light reaches the sensor. That would give the camera more flexibility in bright and dark conditions and could provide greater control over depth of field.
It could also improve video exposure transitions when moving between different lighting environments.
Pro Max May Get the Exclusive Camera Feature
This is where the two Pro models could finally become meaningfully different.
Recent reports claim the variable-aperture camera may be exclusive to the iPhone 18 Pro Max. A leaked Sony IMX905 sensor reference has also been linked to the Pro Max and its variable-aperture support.
If accurate, Apple would be giving buyers another major reason to choose the larger and more expensive Pro Max.
New Modem and Better Efficiency
Apple is also expected to introduce a newer modem in at least some iPhone 18 models. Reports suggest the company could use its own C2 modem, although regional differences remain possible, particularly for U.S. models and mmWave connectivity.
A more efficient modem combined with the A20 Pro and a larger battery could make the iPhone 18 Pro Max particularly attractive for heavy 5G users.
iPhone 18 Pro Price Could Be Higher
Pricing remains unconfirmed, but current expectations point toward a higher starting price for the Pro lineup.
Reports suggest Apple could increase prices by roughly $100 to $300, with higher memory and component costs among the factors behind the expected increase.
For Pakistani buyers, the final iPhone 18 Pro Max price in Pakistan will naturally depend on Apple’s international pricing, storage configuration, exchange rates, PTA taxes and local retailer margins.
September 9 Could Finally End the Rumor Cycle
Apple is scheduled to hold its major September event on September 9, 2026, where the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to be introduced alongside Apple’s first foldable iPhone.
That means the Dark Cherry finish, blue model, camera configuration, battery capacity and final color lineup should all be confirmed very soon.

Zawar Alam is a passionate technology and mobile phone content writer with years of experience covering the latest smartphones, gadgets, apps, and tech trends. He specializes in delivering accurate news, detailed specifications, feature comparisons, and helpful buying guides. His goal is to provide readers with clear, reliable, and up-to-date information to help them make informed technology decisions. Through his work, he stays committed to tracking the fast-changing world of mobile technology and consumer electronics.

























