Will iPhone 18 Pro models have under-display Face ID? - Updated on 2025-05-08

The iPhone 18 Pro is one of the most highly anticipated smartphones on the horizon, and one of the biggest questions on everyone's mind is whether it will finally ditch the notch in favor of under-display Face ID. This would be a huge design upgrade, giving users a truly edge-to-edge screen that is both sleek and futuristic. However, as exciting as this prospect may be, it's not going to be easy for Apple to achieve.

The main reason for this is that Face ID uses a complex array of sophisticated sensors, including cameras and projectors, to map a user's face and provide secure biometric authentication. Hiding all of these sensors under the screen is an incredibly tricky task, and one that poses several significant technical hurdles. For example, the screen itself could interfere with the sensors, making Face ID less accurate or reliable. Getting a clear image under the display is a major challenge, and one that Apple will need to overcome if it wants to make under-display Face ID a reality.

Another challenge that Apple will face is the power drain associated with under-display Face ID. Shining light through the screen to scan a user's face will likely use more battery power than the current system, which is a big deal for iPhone users who already worry about battery life. Apple will need to find ways to make the system much more efficient if it wants to avoid compromising on battery life, which is a key factor for many smartphone users.

In addition to the technical challenges, there are also cost considerations to take into account. Making under-display Face ID a reality will likely be expensive and complex, which could mean a pricier iPhone 18 Pro. Apple will need to find a way to balance innovation and cost, which is never an easy task. The company has a reputation for producing high-quality, premium products, but it also needs to make sure that its devices are affordable for a wide range of consumers.

There are also usability questions to consider, such as how under-display Face ID will work with screen protectors and different types of screens. Apple will need to do tons of testing to make sure that the system is reliable in everyday use, which will require a significant investment of time and resources. The company will need to consider a wide range of scenarios and use cases, from users who wear glasses or hats to those who use their phones in bright sunlight or low-light conditions.

If Apple is able to overcome these challenges and make under-display Face ID a reality, the payoff could be huge. A stunning, notch-free screen would be a major design upgrade, and one that would set the iPhone 18 Pro apart from other smartphones on the market. It could also open the door to other under-display technologies, such as fingerprint scanners, which would provide users with even more convenience and security options.

However, at this point, it's still a big "if." The challenges are real, and it's possible that under-display Face ID may not make it into the iPhone 18 Pro. It could be pushed back to a later model, which would give Apple more time to work out the technical and cost issues. Either way, it will be fascinating to see how this plays out and what it means for the future of phone design. We're all watching this closely, and it will be interesting to see how Apple chooses to proceed.

One thing that's certain is that Apple is always pushing the boundaries of what is possible with smartphone design and technology. The company has a long history of innovation, from the introduction of the first iPhone to the development of features like Face ID and Touch ID. Whether or not under-display Face ID makes it into the iPhone 18 Pro, it's clear that Apple is committed to continuing to innovate and improve its products.

In fact, the rumors about under-display Face ID are just one example of the many exciting developments that are happening in the world of smartphone technology. From foldable screens to 5G connectivity, there are many new features and technologies that are being developed and tested. It's an exciting time for smartphone users, and it will be interesting to see how these new technologies shape the future of phone design and functionality.

Of course, there are also potential downsides to consider. For example, under-display Face ID could be more prone to errors or security breaches, which could compromise user safety and security. There are also concerns about the environmental impact of producing and disposing of smartphones, which is a growing issue that needs to be addressed. As smartphone technology continues to evolve, it's essential that companies like Apple prioritize sustainability and social responsibility.

Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of under-display Face ID are significant. A notch-free screen would provide a more immersive and engaging user experience, and would allow for more creative and innovative design possibilities. It could also enable new features and functionalities, such as augmented reality experiences or advanced biometric security. The possibilities are endless, and it will be exciting to see how Apple and other companies choose to develop and implement this technology.

In conclusion, the question of whether the iPhone 18 Pro will ditch the notch in favor of under-display Face ID is a complex and intriguing one. While there are many technical, cost, and usability challenges to overcome, the potential benefits of this technology are significant. If Apple is able to make under-display Face ID a reality, it could be a major game-changer for the smartphone industry, and would provide users with a more sleek, secure, and convenient way to interact with their devices. We'll be watching this closely, and it will be interesting to see how this plays out and what it means for the future of phone design.