Could the notch on iPhones finally be a thing of the past? A groundbreaking leak suggests that Apple might be on the verge of a major design overhaul with the iPhone 18 series in 2026. According to a reputable Chinese source, the tech giant is reportedly testing an under-display Face ID system, potentially revolutionizing the way we interact with our devices. But here's where it gets controversial—while Android flagships have boasted similar features for years, Apple’s approach could set a new industry standard. Let’s dive into the details.
A well-known Weibo leaker, known as “Smart Pikachu,” has revealed that Apple is experimenting with a cutting-edge solution involving a “spliced micro-transparent glass” window embedded directly into the display panel. This innovation would allow the TrueDepth sensor array’s infrared light to pass through the screen with minimal distortion, while the rest of the display remains seamless and uninterrupted. The technique mirrors methods already employed by Android manufacturers, such as micro-perforated or nano-etched glass, but Apple’s execution could bring unparalleled precision and integration.
And this is the part most people miss: the leaker claims that Apple’s testing has already spurred component suppliers to ramp up production efforts, signaling that this feature might not be just a pipe dream. If successful, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, expected in September 2026, could debut with under-display Face ID. However, don’t expect the Dynamic Island to vanish entirely—it’s likely to shrink significantly, with only the front-facing camera requiring a visible cutout.
Display experts like Ross Young and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman have echoed this sentiment, predicting a smaller, pill-shaped Dynamic Island for the 2026 Pro models. Meanwhile, a report from The Information hinted that Apple might reduce it to a single pinhole in the upper-left corner. While the leak doesn’t confirm whether this feature will be exclusive to Pro models, early-stage testing typically begins with high-end devices.
But here’s the bold question: Is Apple playing catch-up with Android, or are they perfecting a technology that others rushed to market? If the iPhone 18 series does eliminate the notch, it would mark a significant milestone—four years after Android flagships first integrated under-display facial recognition. This shift could redefine the aesthetics and functionality of smartphones, but it also raises debates about innovation versus refinement.
What do you think? Is Apple’s potential move a game-changer, or are they simply refining an existing concept? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this hotly debated topic!
