New iPhones could be shorter and more compact
What's the story
Apple is said to be working on a new design for its iPhones, one that would make them more compact and easier to use with one hand. The company is considering changing the display aspect ratio from the current 19.5:9 to around 18:9, as per a report by Chinese tipster Instant Digital. The proposed design would keep the width similar to that of iPhone 18 Pro but reduce the height of the phone.
Design modifications
Changes to status bar and navigation
The tech giant is also said to be exploring changes to the status bar and navigation, with an aim to make better use of screen space.
These plans are still in their early stages and could be changed before production.
The final design may also include a smaller Dynamic Island or an under-display camera, depending on how far Apple gets with its under-display camera technology.
Integration plans
Integrating app tops with status bar
Along with the aspect ratio change, Apple is also said to be considering integrating the top of apps with the status bar.
This would free up some display space without compromising too much on screen real estate.
The tipster also suggests that Apple's smaller camera design could be linked to changes in its front-camera tech, possibly replacing Dynamic Island with a punch-hole cutout or an under-display camera.