- By Alex David
- Wed, 14 May 2025 02:31 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Apple is said to be planning an ambitious design change for their iPhone 18 Pro set for release in 2026, according to display industry expert Ross Young. According to Young, they're working on integrating Face ID components under the display in an attempt to achieve an edge-to-edge screen that is seamless in appearance. Although Face ID technology and display innovations continue to develop and mature, future iPhone models could feature sleeker designs than ever.
Under-Display Face ID is Coming in 2026
Ross Young, Vice President at Counterpoint Research and former CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants, has confirmed that Apple plans to incorporate Face ID sensors beneath the display for its iPhone 18 Pro lineup in 2026.
At the SID Business Conference today, OTI Lumionics CEO Michael Helander confirmed that they expect phones with under panel Face ID using their materials to be available for sale in 2026. This suggests that iPhone 18 Pro models will have under panel Face ID with other brands and…
— Ross Young (@DSCCRoss) May 14, 2025
Key Insights:
- The announcement was made during a recent business conference.
- The change applies specifically to iPhone 18 Pro models.
- This will reduce screen interruptions by eliminating the need for the Dynamic Island’s Face ID cutout.
The Evolution of iPhone Display Cutouts
Apple’s journey toward a truly full-screen iPhone has been long and iterative:
| Generation | Display Cutout | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone X – iPhone 13 | Notch | Housed Face ID & selfie camera |
| iPhone 14 Pro – iPhone 15 Pro | Dynamic Island | Split cutout for Face ID and selfie camera |
| iPhone 18 Pro (Expected) | Pinhole | Only for selfie camera, Face ID hidden |
What About the Selfie Camera?
Although Face ID may move under the display, Apple isn’t ready to do the same for the selfie camera just yet.
Challenges of Under-Display Cameras:
- Current tech leads to reduced image quality.
- More development and optimization is needed.
- Apple prioritizes functionality and image clarity over aesthetics.
- As a result, the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to retain a small pinhole camera on the front.
The Future of Dynamic Island
The introduction of Dynamic Island in iPhone 14 Pro was a clever way to make screen interruptions feel interactive. But with Face ID soon hidden, its purpose may shift.
Potential changes include:
- Retaining Dynamic Island software features even without physical cutouts.
- Centered selfie camera in a pinhole design.
- Greater screen real estate and immersive experience.
Security and Performance Still Come First
Apple’s decision to delay under-display Face ID until 2026 underscores its commitment to security and user experience.
Before any visual enhancements are made:
- Face ID must remain just as secure under the display.
- Performance and speed must match or exceed current standards.
- User experience should not be compromised.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s move to send Face ID under the display in the iPhone 18 Pro could mark a significant milestone in smartphone design. While the selfie camera cutout will remain for now, this shift represents a major step toward a completely unbroken iPhone screen. As technology advances, we can expect Apple to continue pushing the boundaries of form, function, and innovation—all while ensuring the core user experience remains as flawless as ever.