The introduction of Face ID happened with the iPhone X’s inception, and since then, Apple has attempted various technological alterations to reduce the size of the notch. Currently, the company has transitioned to a pill-shaped cutout called Dynamic Island that uses clever software techniques to change its size depending on how it is interacted with. This would mean that the company is ready to take the next step forward, which is bringing under-display Face ID to its upcoming handsets. Unfortunately, one analyst does not believe so, stating that this technology has been pushed back to 2026.
Based on a previous roadmap, under-display Face ID was originally slated to arrive with the iPhone 17 launch
An Apple product roadmap shared by Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) founder and CEO Ross Young previously mentioned that the iPhone 17 family arriving in 2025 would be the first to adopt under-screen Face ID technology. The entire lineup was also predicted to switch to LTPO panel technology, giving even the non-Pro versions access to that buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate option.
However, an X user asked Young if this roadmap retains its accuracy, to which the analyst responded that under-screen Face ID has been pushed back to 2026. This means that the technology would debut with the iPhone 18 series, but customers would have to spend more money because under-screen Face ID is said to remain exclusive to the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Hearing that under panel Face ID may be delayed till 2026…
— Ross Young (@DSCCRoss) March 15, 2024
For those who want to save money and still see this change debut on the non-Pro models, you must wait until 2027, when the iPhone 19 models roll out. Given Young’s solid track record, we have little choice but to go with his word as he is deeply connected with Apple’s supply chain. It is also commendable that he updates his followers on any hardware changes or features before the product’s actual release, giving more weight to his credibility.
Apple is known for delaying various technologies, with a few examples including the adoption of 5G and bringing a telephoto lens to its most expensive iPhone 15 Pro Max years after the competition. It is likely that under-display Face ID is not ready because it degrades the authentication capabilities of the sensors. Image quality would take a hit, assuming the front-facing camera is also behind the OLED panel. Hopefully, Apple will not take too long to refine these changes and bring under-screen Face ID in a few years.
News Source: Ross Young
