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Apple is pushing ahead with the development of an iPhone with a completely bezel-less display. New information from the leak scene shows that the company is continuing to work intensively on technologies that would enable a completely uninterrupted display. At the heart of this is a possible anniversary model for 2027, which could mark a significant design departure.
Apple's long-term strategy has been clearly evident for years. Step by step, visible elements are disappearing from the front of the iPhone. The wide notch was followed by the Dynamic Island, which integrates functions while taking up less space. This development is no accident, but part of a clear vision: a display without interruptions.
Such a device has long been a goal internally. The 20th anniversary of the iPhone offers a fitting opportunity to present a comprehensively redesigned model that clearly distinguishes itself from previous generations.
Progress, leaks and technical hurdles
According to current information, Apple is continuing to work on integrating camera and Face ID technology directly under the display. The Chinese leaker Digital Chat Station reports that corresponding tests are ongoing. This technology is crucial because it would allow all visible cutouts to be removed.
At the same time, it's clear that Apple isn't rushing this change. Instead of an abrupt design leap, many signs point to a gradual evolution. The Dynamic Island could be further reduced in size as early as the next Pro models. Initial components of Face ID could move under the display, while other parts remain visible. The front camera could also initially remain as a small opening in the display before being fully integrated later.
This cautious approach aligns with Apple's existing product strategy. Apple is known for introducing new technologies only when they are mature enough to meet its own high quality standards.
However, there are also indications that development is progressing more slowly than originally expected. Display analyst Ross Young believes that even a smaller Dynamic Island could remain in use until 2027. Similarly, leaker Fixed Focus Digital reports that Apple is still struggling with problems implementing Face ID under the display.
Technical hurdles are slowing down Apple's all-screen vision
These difficulties primarily concern the reliability and accuracy of the sensors. Since Face ID is a security-relevant system, Apple cannot compromise here. This is likely one of the reasons why the company is currently focusing on intermediate steps rather than switching directly to a completely invisible system.
Despite these challenges, the long-term goal remains. A particularly high-end model is apparently planned for 2027, which could be released specifically for the 20th anniversary. This device is expected to offer a completely uninterrupted display and simultaneously implement an all-glass design. This also includes a quadruple-curved display that extends across all sides of the device, creating a virtually borderless appearance.
Such a design would significantly change the iPhone's appearance. The screen would no longer be clearly defined by a frame, but would visually blend into the casing. This would represent a new design approach for Apple, clearly distinguishing it from current smartphones.
For this concept to work, however, Apple must eliminate the last visible weakness: the cutout on the front. Only when the camera and Face ID disappear completely under the display can the desired design be realized. Whether the technologies currently being tested will reach the necessary maturity in time remains to be seen.
Ambitious goal with an uncertain outcome
Apple remains committed to its vision of an iPhone without visible display cutouts. Development is deliberately proceeding in stages to minimize technical risks and ensure quality.
At the same time, current information shows that not all challenges have been overcome. The integration of Face ID under the display, in particular, presents a major hurdle. Whether Apple can overcome this by 2027 remains to be seen.
However, one thing is clear: Should this goal be achieved, the anniversary iPhone could not only usher in a new chapter for Apple, but also set the direction for future smartphone designs. (Image: Shutterstock / Anna Hoychuk)
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