iPhone 18 Pro to Feature Smaller Dynamic Island Without Top-Left Camera Cutout
Recent leaks have provided new insights into the design of Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro, particularly concerning the front display and camera configuration. Contrary to earlier reports suggesting a significant redesign, the latest information indicates that the iPhone 18 Pro will retain a centered Dynamic Island, albeit in a reduced size, and will not incorporate a top-left camera cutout.
Clarifying the Dynamic Island and Camera Placement
The Dynamic Island, introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro, serves as a dynamic interface element that adapts to various notifications and activities. Initial rumors suggested that the iPhone 18 Pro might relocate the front-facing camera to the top-left corner of the display, potentially eliminating the pill-shaped cutout. However, recent insights from Weibo-based leaker Instant Digital suggest otherwise.
According to Instant Digital, earlier reports from Chinese and Korean sources about the possible relocation of an infrared Face ID component were mistranslated in some English-language coverage as a visible left-side hole-punch front camera. This misinterpretation conflated different Face ID elements and overlooked how Apple typically evolves its front sensor layout, allowing a minor internal change to be misread as a major external redesign. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/20/iphone-18-pro-leak-smaller-dynamic-island/?utm_source=openai))
Technical Insights into Face ID Components
To provide clarity, Instant Digital shared an image of a Face ID sensor assembly comprising three distinct modules mounted on a single flex cable: an infrared flood illuminator on the left, a centered dot projector, and an infrared camera to its right. The leaker suggests that the flood illuminator, being relatively small and optically simple, is the only Face ID component likely to be placed under the display in the top-left area of the screen. In contrast, the dot projector and infrared camera would remain centered and housed within a reduced, pill-shaped Dynamic Island, where the selfie camera would also reside. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/20/iphone-18-pro-leak-smaller-dynamic-island/?utm_source=openai))
Implications for the iPhone 18 Pro Design
This configuration implies that the iPhone 18 Pro will maintain a centered Dynamic Island, albeit smaller in size, and will not feature a top-left hole-punch camera. This design choice aligns with Apple’s gradual approach to evolving its front sensor layout, ensuring that any internal changes do not drastically alter the device’s external appearance.
Industry Reactions and Confirmations
The latest leak has been corroborated by the X account ShrimpApplePro, known for accurately leaking details about Apple devices in the past. Additionally, respected former display analyst Ross Young has also supported Instant Digital’s claims, adding credibility to the information. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2026/01/20/iphone-18-pro-leak-smaller-dynamic-island/?utm_source=openai))
Conclusion
In summary, the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to feature a smaller, centered Dynamic Island without a top-left camera cutout. This design approach reflects Apple’s commitment to refining its devices while maintaining a consistent user experience. As the anticipated September unveiling approaches, more details are likely to emerge, providing further insights into the iPhone 18 Pro’s design and features.
