Apple iPhone 18 Pro Might Feature Under-Display Face ID – The Apple iPhone 18 Pro is already creating a buzz—two years before its expected release. According to multiple reliable reports, Apple may finally introduce under-display Face ID technology with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, a shift that could redefine the front design of the iPhone. This technological leap would eliminate the need for the Dynamic Island and bring Apple one step closer to a truly seamless, full-screen experience.
Currently expected to launch in September 2026, the iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to feature cutting-edge innovations including not just under-display Face ID, but also a hole-punch camera, a new A20 Pro chip based on TSMC’s 2nm process, a 48MP variable aperture main camera, and a more powerful RAM configuration. If the reports hold true, this could mark one of the most radical redesigns in the iPhone’s history.
Apple iPhone 18 Pro Might Feature Under-Display Face ID
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max |
| Launch Timeline | Expected September 2026 |
| Key Innovation | Under-display Face ID replacing Dynamic Island |
| Camera | 48MP primary camera with variable aperture |
| Processor | A20 Pro chip (2nm process by TSMC) |
| Memory | 12GB RAM (up from 8GB in iPhone 15 Pro) |
| Front Camera Design | Hole-punch only, no notch |
| Battery Improvement | Potential increase in battery size for all-day use |
| Operating System | iOS 20, optimized for AI and Face ID enhancements |
| Official Sources | MacRumors, GSM Arena |
| Expected Retail Price | To be confirmed closer to launch |
The iPhone 18 Pro is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious redesigns in Apple’s history. With under-display Face ID, a new A20 Pro chip, variable aperture cameras, increased RAM, better battery life, and improved AI capabilities, Apple is clearly targeting both design purity and performance excellence. While we’re still more than a year away from launch, the direction Apple is taking hints at a future where the screen is all you see—but everything else just works invisibly underneath.
Why Under-Display Face ID Is a Big Deal?
The introduction of under-display Face ID is not just about aesthetics—it’s a technical challenge that Apple has reportedly been working on for years. Traditionally, Face ID hardware includes an infrared camera, flood illuminator, and dot projector, all of which require space and transparency to function. Embedding this suite underneath the OLED screen demands innovative display engineering that allows infrared light to pass through pixels accurately, without degrading facial recognition performance.
As per MacRumors and The Elec, Apple may first introduce this feature exclusively in the iPhone 18 Pro models, giving them a visible edge over non-Pro and previous iPhone variants. The standard iPhone 18 models are expected to retain the Dynamic Island or similar notch design.
How Under-Display Face ID Will Work?
Instead of the current visible notch or Dynamic Island, Apple’s new approach might involve:
Transparent Pixel Windows
A small section of the display will have lower pixel density or transparent materials, allowing the infrared sensors to “see” your face clearly.
Customized OLED Panels
Apple is believed to be collaborating with Samsung and LG for customized OLED panels that permit infrared penetration without light distortion.
AI-Based Image Correction
Using machine learning algorithms, Apple could correct for any minor distortions introduced by viewing the user’s face through a layer of pixels.
This multi-layered approach will ensure that Face ID continues to be fast, secure, and accurate, even without visible hardware.
What Else Is New in iPhone 18 Pro?
The iPhone 18 Pro isn’t just about under-display Face ID. Here’s a rundown of the other rumored upgrades:
A20 Pro Chipset – TSMC’s 2nm Powerhouse
Apple’s next-generation A20 Pro chip will likely be manufactured using TSMC’s 2nm process, a significant upgrade over the current 3nm A17 Pro. This transition could result in:
- 20–30% better energy efficiency
- Faster CPU and GPU performance
- Enhanced machine learning capabilities
48MP Camera With Variable Aperture
Apple may introduce a variable aperture lens on its 48MP primary camera, allowing users to switch between wider and narrower apertures for more creative control over:
- Depth of field
- Low-light performance
- Motion capture
Triple-Stacked Image Sensor for Pro Photography
Another reported enhancement is a new image sensor stack, rumored to be supplied by Samsung. With this:
- Dynamic range could improve by up to 30%
- Faster readout speeds will reduce motion blur
- Better color fidelity in extreme lighting conditions
Increased RAM – 12GB for Multitasking
From 8GB in the iPhone 15 Pro, Apple is expected to bump the RAM to 12GB, matching or exceeding Android competitors. This will significantly benefit:
- Multitasking and app switching
- Gaming performance
- Real-time photo and video editing
Battery Life and Charging Improvements
Leaks suggest the iPhone 18 Pro might include a larger battery module and better heat dissipation architecture, which would result in:
- Longer screen-on time
- Better performance for gaming and streaming
- Support for improved wireless charging speeds
Additionally, Apple might enhance MagSafe capabilities and reduce reliance on Lightning by shifting entirely to USB-C.
Expected Launch Timeline
September 2026 for Pro Models
The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to launch in Apple’s usual September cycle in fall 2026. However, rumors suggest a possible staggered rollout:
- Pro models in September 2026
- Standard and “Air” models in early 2027, possibly due to supply chain and new foldable device timelines
What’s Not Coming (Yet)
Despite earlier speculation, under-display front cameras are not expected in iPhone 18 Pro. Apple will likely retain a small punch-hole for the selfie camera, as image quality through screens still lags far behind exposed lenses.
This also means the iPhone 18 Pro won’t yet be a completely portless or buttonless device, but it’s moving closer to that ideal.
Why Apple May Delay the Technology to iPhone 18 (Not iPhone 17)?
While some fans hoped for under-display Face ID in iPhone 17 Pro, reports suggest Apple is taking its time to perfect the tech. According to The Elec and Display Supply Chain Consultants, the tech isn’t quite production-ready at scale for 2025.
By waiting until 2026, Apple ensures:
- Higher yields from OLED manufacturers
- More robust testing for Face ID accuracy
- Better integration with iOS updates and hardware tuning
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FAQs about Apple iPhone 18 Pro Might Feature Under-Display Face ID
Q1. Will the iPhone 18 Pro really ditch the Dynamic Island?
Yes, if rumors are accurate, the iPhone 18 Pro will replace the Dynamic Island with under-display Face ID and a hole-punch camera, offering a cleaner screen.
Q2. Is the under-display Face ID as secure as regular Face ID?
Apple is known for maintaining high security standards. The under-display Face ID is expected to be equally secure, using similar TrueDepth infrared technology.
Q3. When will the iPhone 18 Pro be available?
The Pro models are expected to launch in September 2026, although Apple hasn’t officially confirmed this timeline.
Q4. Will all iPhone 18 models have this feature?
No, only the Pro and Pro Max are expected to feature under-display Face ID. Standard iPhone 18 models may retain the Dynamic Island.
Q5. What will be the price of iPhone 18 Pro?
Pricing is unconfirmed, but with these upgrades, the base price could start from $1,199 or higher, depending on storage.
Q6. How does the new Face ID compare to Android under-display sensors?
Apple’s version is expected to be more accurate, faster, and better integrated, given its tight ecosystem and emphasis on privacy and performance.
Q7. Will iPhone 18 Pro be more eco-friendly?
Apple continues to focus on sustainability, so we may see more recycled materials, reduced carbon footprint in production, and longer support cycles for iOS updates.
