Apple is poised to revolutionize smartphone design with the anticipated introduction of under-display Face ID technology in its forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro models, slated for release in 2026. This advancement aims to deliver a seamless, edge-to-edge display by concealing the Face ID components beneath the screen, thereby eliminating the need for visible notches or cutouts.
Evolution of Face ID and Display Design
Since its debut with the iPhone X in 2017, Face ID has been a cornerstone of Apple’s biometric authentication system. However, the technology necessitated design compromises, such as the prominent notch at the top of the display to house the necessary sensors and cameras. In 2022, Apple introduced the Dynamic Island with the iPhone 14 Pro, a pill-shaped cutout that offered a more integrated approach by blending hardware and software to display notifications and activities. Despite these innovations, the quest for a truly uninterrupted display has remained a priority.
Under-Display Face ID: The Next Frontier
The integration of under-display Face ID represents a significant leap forward. By embedding the Face ID sensors beneath the screen, Apple can achieve a more expansive and immersive display experience. This development aligns with the broader industry trend toward maximizing screen real estate without compromising functionality.
Technical Challenges and Industry Insights
Implementing under-display technology is not without its challenges. The Face ID system relies on projecting thousands of infrared dots onto the user’s face to create a detailed map, which is then analyzed for authentication. Placing these components under the display requires ensuring that the infrared light can effectively penetrate the screen without degradation, a complex engineering feat.
Display industry analyst Ross Young has been closely monitoring this progression. Initially, under-display Face ID was anticipated for the iPhone 17 Pro models. However, Young’s recent insights suggest a delay, with the technology now expected to debut in the iPhone 18 Pro models in 2026. This postponement is attributed to the intricate technical hurdles involved in perfecting the under-display system.
Industry Collaboration and Material Innovations
At the Society for Information Display (SID) Business Conference, Michael Helander, CEO of OTI Lumionics, confirmed that smartphones featuring under-panel Face ID utilizing their materials are projected to be available for sale in 2026. This collaboration underscores the concerted efforts between Apple and material science companies to overcome the technical challenges associated with under-display technology.
Impact on User Experience
The removal of the notch and the adoption of under-display Face ID are expected to significantly enhance the user experience. An uninterrupted display offers a more immersive environment for activities such as video streaming, gaming, and reading. Additionally, this design evolution opens the door for new software features that can leverage the full-screen real estate, potentially leading to innovative user interfaces and interactions.
Future Prospects: Under-Display Front Cameras
While the integration of under-display Face ID is a monumental step, the journey toward a completely seamless display continues. The next logical progression involves placing the front-facing camera under the display. However, current under-display camera technology faces challenges, particularly concerning image quality and light transmission. As such, it may be several more years before this feature becomes viable without compromising performance.
Conclusion
Apple’s anticipated introduction of under-display Face ID in the iPhone 18 Pro models marks a significant milestone in smartphone design and technology. By eliminating the notch and achieving a true edge-to-edge display, Apple is set to redefine user expectations and set new industry standards. As the company continues to innovate, the future of iPhone design promises even more groundbreaking advancements, further solidifying Apple’s position at the forefront of technological evolution.
