The iPhone 17 series might still be a few months away, but that hasn’t stopped the rumour mill from turning its focus toward what comes next. According to new leaks, Apple is preparing a major design shift for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, laying the groundwork for an even bigger leap with the iPhone 19 in 2027. If the reports are accurate, the future of iPhones could look radically different, with edge-to-edge displays and no visible cutouts.
Under-Display Face ID
The headline feature expected for the iPhone 18 Pro models is the introduction of under-display Face ID. This would be a first for Apple. According to a report from The Information, Apple plans to move the Face ID hardware beneath the screen, eliminating the need for the current Dynamic Island cutout.
Instead of the pill-shaped design at the top of the screen, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max may only feature a small punch-hole in the top-left corner for the front-facing camera. This would mark the start of a major visual overhaul in the iPhone lineup, bringing Apple one step closer to a true all-screen phone.
Transition Toward iPhone 19
This design change is just the beginning. Apple is reportedly planning to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the iPhone in 2027 with the release of the iPhone 19, featuring a fully edge-to-edge display. That means no Dynamic Island, no camera holes—just a seamless glass front from edge to edge.
To make this possible, Apple is said to be working on placing both the front-facing camera and Face ID sensors completely under the screen. While this technology is already being explored by competitors, Apple seems to be taking a more cautious, step-by-step approach to ensure it meets their high standards of quality and reliability.
Apple Catching Up to Rivals?
While this sounds futuristic, Apple wouldn’t be the first brand to attempt a seamless screen. In fact, OnePlus launched the 7 Pro in 2019 with a pop-up selfie camera, avoiding any on-screen cutouts. Brands like Red Magic have also released gaming phones with under-display selfie cameras, giving users a clean, immersive screen.
What sets Apple apart is its approach. Rather than relying on mechanical solutions like pop-up cameras, Apple is focused on integrating the camera and Face ID directly under the display, which is a much cleaner long-term solution.
Twice-a-Year iPhone Launch?
Another interesting detail from the same source is that Apple may also be considering a new product release strategy. The report suggests the company might begin launching iPhone updates twice a year instead of once—possibly starting in 2027. While this would be a major shift from Apple’s current cycle, it could allow for more flexible and timely feature rollouts, keeping pace with Android competition.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what we know and expect so far:
| iPhone Model | Expected Launch | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 18 Pro | 2026 | Under-display Face ID, small punch-hole camera |
| iPhone 18 Pro Max | 2026 | Same as Pro model with larger display |
| iPhone 19 | 2027 | Fully seamless all-screen design |
| iPhone 19 Pro | 2027 | Under-display camera and sensors |
| Anniversary Note | 2027 | Marks 20 years since the first iPhone |
The road to a seamless iPhone is long but seems inevitable. Apple’s move to under-display Face ID in iPhone 18 could just be the beginning of a completely new design language for the iPhone lineup. With a focus on elegance, minimalism, and new screen technologies, the next few years of iPhones are going to be anything but boring.
FAQs
Will iPhone 18 Pro have under-display Face ID?
Yes, it’s expected to feature under-display Face ID tech.
When will the iPhone 19 launch?
It’s expected to debut in 2027 for iPhone’s 20th anniversary.
What is Dynamic Island being replaced with?
A small hole-punch camera and under-display sensors.
Will iPhone 19 have a full-screen design?
Yes, it’s expected to feature a truly edge-to-edge display.
Is Apple switching to two iPhone launches yearly?
Reports suggest this may start as early as 2027.
