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Apple’s under-display Face ID may debut in 2026 with iPhone 18 Pro

Apple’s under-display Face ID may debut in 2026 with iPhone 18 Pro

  • 17.03.2025 09:02
  • vietnamnet.vn
  • Keywords: NoCompanies

Apple is reportedly developing under-display Face ID for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max in 2026, though challenges remain with integrating the technology beneath OLED screens. Experts predict a full-screen design could arrive by 2027, potentially aligning with former designer Jony Ive's vision.

Apple Reports

Estimated market influence

Context

Business Insights and Market Implications of Apple’s Under-Display Face ID

Key Facts and Timeline

  • Reported Launch: Under-display Face ID is expected to debut on the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in 2026.
  • Initial Predictions: Originally predicted for iPhone 17 Pro (April 2023), but delayed until 2026 (May 2024).
  • Recent Leaks: Metalens technology development confirmed, aiming to integrate TrueDepth sensors under OLED displays.

Technological Challenges

  • Complexity of Integration: Face ID uses over 30,000 infrared points, making it far more complex than Android’s fingerprint scanners.
  • Sensor Accuracy: Maintaining infrared sensor and TrueDepth camera accuracy through OLED panels remains a hurdle.

Competitive Landscape

  • Market Pressure: Apple faces competition from Android manufacturers like Google (Pixel 9) and Samsung (Galaxy S25), which already use under-display cameras.
  • Design Race: The move toward full-screen designs aligns with industry trends, but execution will differentiate Apple’s premium positioning.

Market Implications

  • Consumer Appeal: A seamless, full-screen design could boost iPhone 18 Pro sales and justify higher pricing.
  • Investor Sentiment: Seen as a strategic innovation step, but delays or technical issues could impact investor confidence.
  • Regulatory Impact: Potential scrutiny over facial recognition technology accuracy and privacy concerns.

Long-Term Effects

  • Future Product Design: Success of under-display Face ID could influence Apple’s approach to other devices like the foldable iPad Pro (rumored 18.8-inch model).
  • Industry Standards: If successful, Apple may set a new benchmark for smartphone biometric integration.

Strategic Considerations

  • R&D Investment: Indicates significant R&D investment in advanced display and sensor technologies.
  • Timing Risk: Delays suggest technical complexity, but 2026 launch aligns with industry expectations.

Conclusion: Apple’s under-display Face ID represents a major step toward achieving a true full-screen iPhone design, with significant implications for market positioning, consumer demand, and technological innovation in the smartphone industry.