Apple has been on a quest to integrate Face ID technology directly into the display of its devices, and recent reports indicate that this innovation may finally come to fruition with the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro. This potential advancement has gained significant credibility following a new development that suggests the end of the Dynamic Island feature is imminent.
Over the years, Apple has secured multiple patents related to in-display Face ID. This technology aims to incorporate both the dot transmitter and receiver beneath the screen, eliminating the need for any cutouts. Once successful, this would allow Apple to replace the existing Dynamic Island with a minimalist punch-hole design for the front-facing camera. However, embedding the front camera beneath the display is expected to take additional time.
A recently published Apple patent has revealed that the tech giant may have addressed one of the most significant challenges in achieving in-display Face ID: the difficulty of infrared light traveling through display materials. Apple’s proposed solution involves removing subpixels from the display in a manner that remains visually unobtrusive. According to reports from The Information, Apple is set to introduce this groundbreaking technology in the two iPhone 18 Pro models, with design specifications indicating a small hole in the top-left corner to house the front-facing camera.
Adding to the growing evidence, a company linked to Apple has announced expectations for its technology to be utilized in a smartphone scheduled for release in 2026. Notable display analyst Ross Young has deemed this claim credible, suggesting that it aligns with the forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. During the SID Business Conference, OTI Lumionics CEO Michael Helander confirmed their anticipation of smartphones featuring under-panel Face ID using their materials by 2026, hinting that other brands may follow Apple’s lead.
With the technology in place and expert endorsements backing its imminent launch, the integration of in-display Face ID in the iPhone 18 Pro appears highly likely. This advancement not only promises to enhance user experience but also signifies Apple's commitment to innovation in smartphone technology. As we await the official announcement, the excitement surrounding the next generation of iPhones continues to build.
