These iPhone models could get Apple's under-display Face ID tech, says leaker

A new leak suggests Apple will bring its under-display Face ID tech to these iPhone models, reigniting old rumors.

The iPhone 18 series is due for a launch in the second half of this year, probably in September, if Apple follows its past trend. There have been speculations about when Apple will advance its Face ID tech and put it under the screen to achieve a seamless display.

Thankfully, the Cupertino giant appears to be moving in that direction. Weibo-based leaker Digital Chat Station published a new post detailing some alleged specs for the unreleased iPhone 18 series display and said that the Pro models will be the first to get Apple's under-display Face ID tech this year.

Here are the display specifications for different iPhone 18 models based on the post:

iPhone 18: 6.27-inch LTPO 120Hz Dynamic Island
iPhone Air 2: 6.55-inch LTPO 120Hz Dynamic Island
iPhone 18 Pro: 6.27-inch LTPO 120Hz Under-Display Face ID
iPhone 18 Pro Max: 6.86-inch LTPO 120Hz Under-Display Face ID

According to the tipster, Apple has moved the iPhone 18 series into its prototype production phase and started testing under-display Face ID. They noted that the Pro models will have a "new area" under the screen, but didn't mention whether Apple will also put the front camera behind the display.

However, testing a particular prototype doesn't mean it will become the final version. Apple often tests multiple versions of its products during development to determine what works and what doesn't.

It wouldn't be surprising if Apple takes a phased approach and makes a gradual shift for the Face ID design over the years. Meanwhile, past rumors about the under-display Face ID have been mixed.

Weibo-leaker Instant Digital said that Apple will settle for a narrower Dynamic Island and push the upgraded Face ID for later versions. Without specifying the models, a newer leak from last month claims that the iPhone 18 series will feature under-display Face ID using a new type of micro-transparent glass.

As for other iPhone models, it's common for new Apple designs to debut on the Pro models and then trickle down to lower-end variants. Apple has already done it with the Dynamic Island (on iPhone 14 Pro) and the Action Button (on iPhone 15 Pro).

It's worth noting that the leak post (via The Mac Observer) doesn't mention the foldable iPhone, suggesting Apple could continue with its current design in 2026. The foldable iPhone is rumored to launch between 2026 and 2028.