Under-Display Face ID Rumored for iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max: Major Design Leap Expected

Apple’s unyielding push for seamless design appears to be taking another bold step with the rumored introduction of under-display Face ID in its upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. According to trusted leaks and recent supply chain confirmations, the tech giant is testing under-screen biometric authentication systems—a move that could significantly reshape the iPhone’s front-facing design and user experience.

iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max: Embracing Under-Display Face ID

The buzz surrounding the iPhone 18 Pro has intensified following a recent leak from Digital Chat Station via Weibo. The insider, known for accurate insights into tech trends, confirms that Apple is testing under-display 3D Face ID systems with a single HIAA punch hole on the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max models. This development not only aims at maximizing screen real estate but also marks a clear departure from the now-familiar Dynamic Island.

The iPhone 18 and 18 Air, meanwhile, are expected to retain the conventional 2+1 punch hole design, signaling Apple’s intent to reserve top-tier innovation for its Pro lineup. The redesign represents a shift toward more immersive visuals and a less intrusive display interface—a dream long shared by Apple enthusiasts and industrial designers alike.

Behind the Glass: The Technology Powering the Transformation

Under-display technology isn’t entirely new, but Apple’s pursuit of perfection means it typically arrives late to the game—only when the tech meets Cupertino’s stringent standards. The rumored setup integrates the infrared camera, dot projector, and flood illuminator beneath the OLED display, which could be made possible through specialized low-reflective panels and software-level compensation algorithms.

This leap builds on Apple’s long-term vision of an uninterrupted display. Moving Face ID below the glass presents challenges such as ensuring facial recognition speed, accuracy under varied lighting conditions, and maintaining privacy and security standards. Apple reportedly partners with its key suppliers like LG Display and Samsung for testing refined OLED structures that support this under-display module without affecting screen brightness or color fidelity.

According to CNET, several smartphone makers have experimented with under-display cameras, but few have achieved both high quality and consistency. Apple’s delay might therefore be strategic, ensuring they offer the first truly invisible yet fully functional facial recognition system.

Design Implications: A New Era for the iPhone’s Front Aesthetic

With the camera notch possibly shifting toward a less central location—or even vanishing—the front design of the iPhone 18 Pro could look more futuristic than ever. While Digital Chat Station stopped short of confirming the repositioning of the front camera, earlier reports from The Information suggested Apple was exploring a top-left corner cutout for the selfie camera. If this materializes, it could influence app layout, status bar optimization, and even media content framing on the device.

Apple has been slowly steering users toward gesture-based interactions and ambient data presentation, which may further evolve with these design changes. A cleaner interface not only boosts aesthetics but also reduces distraction—important for content creators and productivity-oriented users alike.

Strategic Differentiation: Why Only the Pro Models?

The differentiation between standard and Pro models is becoming increasingly stark. Apple’s decision to limit under-display Face ID to its iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models aligns with its strategy of pushing innovation at the high end while maintaining affordability at the base level. The iPhone 18 and 18 Air sticking with older designs reflects this tiered feature rollout strategy.

This could also serve to distinguish the flagship devices in an increasingly saturated premium market. With brands like Samsung and Huawei exploring similar technology, Apple’s timing ensures they maintain a leadership edge while refining the experience.

What This Means for Future iPhones

Looking ahead, Apple’s continued evolution in under-display components sets the stage for a more radical design overhaul in the iPhone 19 and beyond. Rumors about full-screen iPhones, foldables, and flexible displays all point toward an ambitious roadmap. The expected foldable iPhone in 2026 might incorporate under-display sensors as a baseline feature.

In this context, the iPhone 18 Pro acts as a crucial transitional model—blending proven design with the future-forward tech Apple needs to test at scale before going all-in. This strategy underscores Apple’s hallmark of introducing game-changing technology through progressive refinement rather than abrupt leaps.

Concept iPhone 18

Will Consumers Notice or Care?

Despite the technical wizardry, one question remains: will average users notice or appreciate the move to under-display Face ID? For some, the aesthetic upgrade will be worth it. Others may care more about battery life, camera performance, or iOS features. However, in Apple’s ecosystem, even minor changes tend to influence broader industry trends—meaning this step could have ripple effects across the mobile landscape.

Moreover, removing visual interruptions from the display could enhance everything from video playback to reading and gaming, resulting in a more immersive experience.

Final Thoughts: Is iPhone 18 Pro Worth the Wait?

With the promise of under-display Face ID, refined design, and exclusive Pro-level features, the iPhone 18 Pro stands poised to set a new standard in Apple’s flagship series. While much remains speculative, the consistent leaks and insider confirmations suggest we are on the cusp of another major leap in mobile technology.

FAQs About iPhone 18

Will iPhone 18 feature under-display Face ID?

Only the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to include under-display Face ID. Standard models will retain traditional cutout designs.

Is there any change in the front camera design?

Rumors suggest the camera cutout might shift to a top-left corner on Pro models, but this hasn’t been officially confirmed.

What’s the difference between iPhone 18 and 18 Pro?

iPhone 18 Pro models will feature under-display Face ID and possibly a new display cutout, while base models keep existing tech.

When will the iPhone 18 be released?

Apple typically unveils new iPhones in September, so the iPhone 18 series is expected around September 2025.

What’s the expected price of the iPhone 18 Pro?

While pricing isn’t confirmed, it will likely follow or slightly exceed the iPhone 15 Pro’s starting price of $999 due to new tech.