Hold onto your hats, iPhone fans—a major design shift might be coming your way next year. Rumors are swirling that Apple is planning to tuck Face ID under the display for the iPhone 18 lineup, a move that could redefine the look and feel of its flagship devices. But here's where it gets controversial: will this change be a game-changer or just a flashy upgrade? Let’s dive into the details.
As we approach the time of year when Apple finalizes designs for its upcoming iPhones, a new leak on Weibo (https://weibo.com/5888095979/QhaTOnSUl) has added fuel to the fire. Leaker Smart Pikachu recently confirmed what many have been whispering about: the iPhone 18 series is expected to feature under-display Face ID technology. This isn’t just speculation—earlier hints (https://9to5mac.com/2025/05/14/iphone-18-pro-with-in-display-face-id-now-looks-very-likely/) have been pointing in this direction for months.
The secret sauce? Apple is reportedly using ‘micro-transparent glass panels’ to make this magic happen. But here’s the part most people miss: the leak doesn’t specify which models will get this upgrade. While previous reports suggest the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and foldable models are likely candidates, it’s still unclear if the base iPhone 18 or iPhone Air 2 will join the party. And this is where it gets even more intriguing—if Apple can move Face ID under the display, the Dynamic Island could shrink significantly, as hinted before. Imagine a sleeker, more seamless iPhone design—exciting, right?
9to5Mac’s Take: Rumors suggest that next year’s flagship lineup will initially include just three models: the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and a foldable device. The base iPhone 18 and iPhone Air 2 are expected to follow in early 2027. This staggered release schedule could give Apple more time to fine-tune materials for the later models. Plus, if there are supply constraints for the new under-display tech, this gap might increase the chances of the entire lineup getting the upgrade.
But let’s pause for a moment—how much does a smaller Dynamic Island really matter to you? Is it a must-have feature, or just a nice-to-have? And here’s a thought-provoking question: could this design shift signal a broader trend in smartphone innovation, or is Apple simply playing catch-up with competitors? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Before you go, here are some top iPhone accessories to enhance your current setup:
- AirPods Pro 3 (now only $219, down from $249) (https://amzn.to/4pmmv1U)
- MagSafe Car Mount for iPhone (https://amzn.to/407e8Nx)
- 10-year AirTag battery case 2-pack (https://amzn.to/4i7ILIJ)
- 100W USB-C fast charging power adapter (https://amzn.to/3wvpO0p)
- AirTag 4-pack (now only $75, down from $99) (https://amzn.to/3DRkM1e)
FTC Disclosure: We use income-earning auto affiliate links. More details here: (https://9to5mac.com/about/#affiliate)
