Rumors of under-display Face ID are swirling again, with a fresh leak claiming Apple plans to introduce this technology on the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max models slated for release in 2026.

This feature has been closely watched by the tech world since the introduction of the "notch" on the iPhone X, which sparked expectations that Apple would eventually embed the entire facial recognition system beneath the display.

Conflicting reports have emerged over the years. In September 2025, a leak claimed that under-display Face ID would appear on the iPhone 18 Pro, but another source denied it in November. These contradictions have made the technology’s future increasingly uncertain.

Ultra-transparent glass breakthrough revealed

Recently, a leak from Chinese social media account “Smart Pikachu” on Weibo revealed that Apple is testing a new method to place Face ID components beneath the screen. This process involves "bonding" or “fusing” ultra-thin transparent glass layers with micro-level precision.

According to MacRumors, the technology appears similar to perforated or nano-textured glass, which enhances infrared transmission - crucial for the Face ID system to function effectively.

Although no further details were disclosed, the leak claims testing has reached an “advanced stage,” with Apple's supply chain reportedly preparing for trial production. This suggests the company may be nearing commercial viability.

It’s worth noting that Smart Pikachu doesn’t have a proven track record with Apple products but has been accurate about Android devices in the past. While this makes the leak notable, it should still be taken with caution.

The leak centers on under-display Face ID, which could allow Apple to reduce or eliminate the notch. However, Face ID isn’t the only component housed there. The notch also includes the ambient light sensor, proximity sensor, and selfie camera.

So, even if Apple succeeds in embedding Face ID under the screen, it might still need to retain a small cutout for the front camera or other sensors - meaning the iPhone 18 Pro might not be entirely “notchless” as some have hoped.

The biometric race under the screen

Beyond Face ID, under-display Touch ID has also been a hot topic in tech circles. Several reports suggest the upcoming iPhone Fold, expected in 2026, may feature under-screen Touch ID. However, some sources say this is unlikely.

Ming-Chi Kuo, a widely respected analyst with a strong prediction record, believes the iPhone Fold will not include under-display Touch ID. He argues that the foldable design’s thin profile makes such integration technically impractical.

Instead, he forecasts that Apple will place Touch ID in the power button, similar to its approach with the iPad Air - a proven, simpler solution.

Whether Apple will truly bring under-display Face ID to the iPhone 18 Pro Max remains unconfirmed. The rumor mill has been spinning on this technology for years without any real-world debut. Apple is known for adopting new tech only when it’s fully refined and aligns with its long-term product strategy.

While some Android rivals have already launched smartphones with under-display cameras, they’ve faced notable quality issues. Apple may be waiting for the technology to mature enough to ensure user experience isn’t compromised.

Will under-screen Face ID make its debut with the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max? Or will Apple hold off until the iPhone 19, 20 - or replace it altogether with a completely new biometric innovation?

The answer remains a mystery, but this latest leak has certainly fueled fresh excitement about what the future holds for Apple’s iconic smartphone line.

Hai Phong