Apple is reportedly gearing up for one of the most significant design overhauls in the iPhone’s history, with the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max expected to deliver a truly full-screen experience. According to a detailed report by The Information, the tech giant is set to introduce an under-display Face ID system, marking a bold departure from its current screen design philosophy.
The redesign will see Apple eliminating the familiar Dynamic Island—first introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro series—in favor of a minimalist punch-hole cutout. Unlike the current pill-shaped cutout that houses both the front camera and Face ID sensors, the iPhone 18 Pro models will reportedly feature a single, small punch-hole in the upper-left corner of the screen, solely for the front-facing camera. Meanwhile, the Face ID components will be cleverly embedded beneath the display.
This move is a natural evolution from Apple’s earlier steps—from the iconic notch introduced with the iPhone X to the Dynamic Island in recent models. Each iteration has been about maximizing screen real estate, and the upcoming shift could deliver the closest thing to an uninterrupted, full-screen iPhone experience yet.
While many Android competitors have leaned into under-display fingerprint sensors, Apple appears committed to its 3D face recognition technology. The under-display Face ID approach underscores the company’s dedication to security and innovation. By moving the Face ID sensors beneath the screen, Apple aims to maintain biometric accuracy without compromising on display aesthetics.
It’s still uncertain whether Apple will completely abandon the Dynamic Island, or reimagine it in a way that complements the new layout. However, the transition to a punch-hole camera indicates a strong push toward a cleaner and more immersive user interface.
Interestingly, the new design is expected to be exclusive to the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max at launch, which is anticipated in 2026. Apple may adopt a staggered release strategy, keeping the standard iPhone 18 and the rumored iPhone 18e models equipped with the current “2+1 punch-hole” configuration until their expected spring 2027 debut.
Apple could also introduce new models like the iPhone 18 Air and its long-rumored foldable iPhone alongside the Pro variants, potentially diversifying its product lineup even further.
The shift to under-display Face ID and a single punch-hole camera aligns Apple with ongoing industry trends while preserving the brand’s distinct focus on functionality and user experience. If the report holds true, the iPhone 18 Pro series could redefine what users expect from a flagship smartphone—delivering not only a sleeker look but also a more immersive and futuristic display.
As the mobile industry inches closer to true full-screen designs, Apple seems poised to make a statement that’s both bold and characteristically Apple: minimalistic, secure, and beautifully engineered.
Via: (Source), Image Credits: iPhone 18 Pro series mockup
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