Apple Plans Under-Display Face ID for iPhone 18 Pro in 2026

Apple is said to be working on a major design overhaul for its iPhone 18 Pro series, expected to launch in 2026. One of the most talked-about upgrades is the potential introduction of Face ID sensors placed underneath the display, effectively removing the current pill-shaped cutout from the front screen.

“Ross Young, vice president at Counterpoint Research and a reliable source for display technology leaks, said on social media that OTI Lumionics, a company specialising in display materials, expects smartphones with under-display Face ID to hit the market in 2026.”

The projection comes after OTI Lumionics CEO, Michael Helander, revealed the timeline during his presentation at the SID Business Conference.

“Young said the remarks likely point to Apple introducing the technology in its iPhone 18 Pro models, which are expected to launch in September 2026.”

Adding to this speculation, The Information previously shared a similar report earlier this month. The outlet, citing sources close to Apple’s development plans, stated:
“According to the report, Apple aims to embed Face ID sensors beneath the screen while keeping only a small hole in the top-left corner for the front-facing camera.”

This change would enable Apple to remove the pill-shaped notch, although it’s uncertain whether it would also signal the end of the Dynamic Island interface introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro. So far, Apple has not officially commented on the design changes for the iPhone 18 Pro.