New information about the future generation of smartphones from Apple indicates that the company is preparing for one of the biggest front design changes since the introduction of the notch. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models, scheduled for launch in 2026, should be the first to incorporate Face ID technology fully integrated under the screen, eliminating the need for the current Dynamic Island.
This technological evolution will allow for a more immersive viewing experience, with the screen occupying almost the entire front part of the device, leaving only a discreet circular cutout for the selfie camera. The move represents the completion of a multi-year project by Apple to hide complex facial recognition sensors.
In addition to the innovation in the authentication system, high-end devices must also debut an improved version of the display technology, known as LTPO+. Essa improvement promises to further optimize energy consumption, resulting in a potential increase in battery life, even with brighter and more efficient screens.
The transition to a cutout-free display
Apple’s journey towards a truly seamless display began in 2017 with the iPhone X, which introduced the Face ID and, consequently, the top cutout known as the notch. Esse design element, which housed the TrueDepth camera and infrared sensors, was a necessary compromise to enable the new form of biometric authentication. Anos later, with the launch of the iPhone 14 Pro in 2022, the notch evolved into the Dynamic Island, a software and hardware solution that transformed the cutout into an interactive area for alerts and background activities. Contudo, the ultimate goal has always been to eliminate any type of visual interruption. The implementation of the Face under-display ID in the iPhone 18
Facial authentication technology details
The Face ID system works by projecting more than 30,000 invisible infrared dots onto the user’s face, creating an accurate depth map that is then analyzed by the processor for authentication. The difficulty of moving this system under the screen lies in ensuring that the display’s pixel layer does not interfere with the projection and reading of these points.
The solution under development involves the use of new materials and a panel architecture that increases the transmissivity of infrared light in specific areas. Dessa way, the sensors can operate with the same precision as when they were exposed directly to the notch or to the Dynamic Island.
The Apple must not compromise security, one of the pillars of the Face ID. Testes rigorous efforts are being conducted to ensure that the under-display system is as safe and fast as the current version, working reliably in a variety of lighting conditions and angles of use.
What is the new LTPO+ display
LTPO technology (Oxide Policristalino of Baixa Temperatura) is already a key component of the Pro models, enabling the ProMotion feature, which dynamically adjusts the screen refresh rate from 1 Quando the content on the screen is static, such as when reading text, the refresh rate decreases to 1 Hz, saving a significant amount of power. When scrolling or playing games, the rate increases to 120 Hz to ensure maximum fluidity.
The LTPO+ variant is an evolution of this technology, focused on further improving energy efficiency across the entire operating range. The improvements focus on reducing current “leakage” in the transistors that control the pixels, which allows the screen to maintain brightness and image quality with even lower power consumption. Esse gain, although incremental, can translate into minutes or even hours more battery life in daily use, or allow Apple to increase the panel’s maximum brightness without sacrificing the device’s autonomy.
The role of suppliers in innovation
The realization of such an advanced technology depends on close collaboration between Apple and its main component suppliers. Empresas like Samsung Display and LG Display, leaders in OLED panel manufacturing, play a key role in developing displays capable of supporting integrated sensors.
These vendors are investing heavily in research and development to create substrates and pixel layers that are transparent to infrared light without affecting the visual quality, brightness or color reproduction of the display.
The manufacturing process is extremely complex and requires a level of precision that few companies in the world can achieve. Calibration between the Face ID sensors and the display panel needs to be perfect to avoid distortion or loss of performance.
Overcoming these large-scale production challenges is crucial to ensuring the technology is ready to power millions of iPhone 18 Pro units at launch, while maintaining the Apple’s high quality standards.
Changes in design and sizes
With the removal of the Dynamic Island, the front design of the iPhone 18 Pro will become noticeably cleaner and more symmetrical. The only interruption will be a small hole for the front camera, bringing the device closer to the ideal of a “screen only” device.
Despite this significant change on the front, the overall device sizes should remain consistent with previous generations. Espera The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to maintain a 6.3-inch screen, while the iPhone 18
Timeline and model differentiation
This innovation follows Apple’s strategy of introducing its most advanced technologies first to the Pro models. Enquanto the iPhone 18 Pro is expected to debut the Face ID under the screen, standard models from the same year will likely maintain the
This clear segmentation helps justify the price difference and position the Pro models as the cutting edge of the company’s technology, attracting consumers seeking the latest features and most modern design available.
Advantages for the end consumer
For the user, the main advantage will be a more immersive user experience. Assistir watching videos, playing games or simply browsing the system interface will become more enjoyable without the presence of a visible cutout, making the most of the usable area of the high-quality screen.