According to a recent report from a Chinese leaker, Apple is set to conceal the front-facing camera under the screen of its highly anticipated 2027 iPhone. This news comes as a confirmation of earlier reports suggesting that Apple's upcoming 20th anniversary iPhone will feature a seamless display without any visible cutouts. The information was shared by the Weibo-based account, Digital Chat Station, which indicated that Apple's development of under-screen camera technology is progressing as planned for this groundbreaking launch.
The speculation surrounding Apple's adoption of under-screen camera technology aligns with the expectation that the company will first introduce under-screen Face ID technology in the iPhone 18 Pro models, expected to launch in 2026. While several Android smartphones currently showcase under-display selfie cameras, they often compromise on image quality due to the camera being positioned behind multiple layers of the display. This has likely led Apple to approach the technology with caution, focusing on developing its own innovative solution.
Recent reports have shed light on Apple's collaboration with LG Innotek, one of its Korean suppliers, which has been working on advanced under-display cameras that leave no visible hole when inactive. This cutting-edge technology employs a freeform optic multiple lens array designed to minimize image distortion while enhancing brightness. Such advancements are crucial, as they aim to compensate for the light loss that typically occurs when a camera is positioned behind a display.
While it remains unclear whether the technology developed by LG Innotek will be integrated into Apple's first foldable iPhone, industry analysts have high hopes for this innovative device. According to JP Morgan's recent report, Apple's foldable iPhone is expected to feature an industry-first 24-megapixel camera located under the inner display. This significant leap in camera resolution is noteworthy, especially considering that most under-screen cameras currently available only utilize 4 or 8 megapixels. This suggests that Apple may have achieved a breakthrough in improving light transmittance and overall image quality compared to previous designs.
As Apple continues to push the boundaries of smartphone technology, the introduction of an under-screen camera in the 2027 iPhone could mark a pivotal moment in mobile photography. With advancements in under-display camera technology and partnerships with key suppliers like LG Innotek, Apple is well-positioned to redefine the user experience while maintaining its commitment to high-quality imaging. Enthusiasts and consumers alike are eagerly awaiting the unveiling of what promises to be a revolutionary device in the iPhone lineup.