The introduction of Face ID coincided with the launch of the iPhone X, and since then, Apple has experimented with various technological changes to reduce the size of the notch. Now, the company is moving to pill-shaped cutouts called Dynamic Islands, which use clever software technology to change size depending on how you interact with them. This means the company is ready to take the next step and bring under-display Face ID to upcoming phones. Unfortunately, one analyst does not believe so and says that this technology has been postponed to 2026.
Based on previous roadmaps, under-display Face ID was originally scheduled to arrive on the iPhone 17 at launch.
The Apple product roadmap shared by Ross Young, founder and CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), states that the iPhone 17 family, arriving in 2025, will be the first to feature under-screen Face ID. He said he would use technology. It was also predicted that the entire lineup would switch to his LTPO panel technology, with non-Pro versions also having access to his smooth 120Hz refresh rate option.
However, when an X user asked Young if this roadmap remained accurate, the analyst replied that under-screen Face ID has been pushed back to 2026. This means the technology will debut on the iPhone 18 series, but customers will have to do it. Face ID under the screen is said to continue to be exclusive to the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, so you'll have to spend more money.
I heard that Face ID on the under panel may be delayed until 2026…
— Ross Young (@DSCCross) March 15, 2024
If you want to save money but also want this change to debut on non-Pro models, you'll have to wait until 2027 when the iPhone 19 models launch. Considering Mr. Young's solid track record and his deep ties to Apple's supply chain, there is little choice but to take him at his word. He also deserves praise for keeping his followers updated on hardware changes and features before the product's actual release, and putting more emphasis on his reliability.
Apple is known for delaying various technologies, including the adoption of 5G and introducing a telephoto lens on its most expensive iPhone 15 Pro Max years after the competition. Perhaps under-display Face ID isn't ready because it degrades the sensor's authentication capabilities. Assuming the front camera is also behind his OLED panel, image quality may be affected. We hope it won't be long before Apple improves on these changes and introduces under-screen Face ID in a few years.
News source: ross young