In an exciting development for tech enthusiasts and Apple fans alike, Bloombergs renowned analyst Mark Gurman has reported that Apple is gearing up to release a game-changing iPhone Pro model in 2027, coinciding with the iPhone's 20th anniversary. This new model is anticipated to feature a design overhaul that emphasizes the use of glass, particularly for the display, potentially leading to a groundbreaking all-screen iPhone without any display cutouts.

Gurman's report outlines what is being labelled as a "major shake-up" within Apple's product design strategy. Specifically, it is expected that the Pro models will see the introduction of a smaller Dynamic Island feature in either 2026 or 2027. This move is part of Apple's initiative to relocate more of its front-facing components beneath the display. A significant question remains: will the transition to an under-display selfie camera or the TrueDepth system, which powers Face ID, occur first? Display analyst Ross Young has indicated that under-screen Face ID technology is currently on track for a debut in 2026.

If this timeline holds true, we could see the under-display Face ID feature introduced as early as next year with the release of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. In such a scenario, while the Dynamic Island may be reduced in size, it would still exist to house a front-facing camera via a minor cutout. The logical progression towards the full-screen design for the iPhone 20th anniversary model would likely involve moving that camera beneath the display as well, culminating in the long-anticipated seamless design that the tech community has speculated about for years. This progression is consistent with Young's display developments outlined since 2023.

Adding credibility to Gurmans insights, well-known leaker Digital Chat Station from Weibo has reported that both the iPhone 17 and iPhone 18 will retain the Dynamic Island feature. However, there are strong indications that the 2027 model could finally achieve the transition to a seamless display that has been so eagerly awaited.

In terms of technological feasibility, Apple is reportedly already testing various innovations that could facilitate this transition. Among these developments is an 18.8-inch foldable device, with prototypes integrating a "metal superstructure lens" that combines the essential components for Face ID, allowing for facial recognition beneath the display.

Moreover, the anticipated foldable iPhone, which may see a launch as early as next year, is said to incorporate an under-display front-facing camera while omitting Face ID, instead using Touch ID embedded in the side button. This suggests that Apple is actively exploring multiple under-display camera technologies across its various product lines.

Each of these advancements indicates that Apple may possess the foundational technology necessary to conceal both the TrueDepth system and the selfie camera beneath the screencritical elements for achieving a truly all-screen iPhone. Achieving this design would represent a significant milestone, echoing the vision of former design chief Jony Ive.

However, Apple's journey towards this revolutionary design is not without challenges. For Face ID to function effectively beneath the display, it is imperative that its sensors, particularly the infrared components, operate without interference from the layers of the display above them. Current OLED and LCD technologies present hurdles in this regard, as they often scatter or absorb infrared signals.

Fortunately, several emerging display technologies could provide solutions. For instance, transparent OLED panels may allow infrared light to pass through designated sections of the screen, though current models face challenges regarding brightness and clarity. Additionally, LTPO displays featuring subpixels capable of temporarily deactivating may enable sensors to "see" through the panel during authentication processes.

Another proposed solution is the integration of optical waveguide layers into the displays to channel infrared signals with minimal distortion. Coupled with the implementation of advanced IR-pass materials, Apple could create invisible sensor zones that maintain display quality while ensuring accurate facial recognition.

It is anticipated that a future under-display Face ID solution will necessitate a combination of these technologies to meet Apple's renowned standards for privacy, performance, and visual fidelity.

On the other hand, the industry has made strides with the under-display front camera. Several Android competitors have already launched devices featuring this technology, and Apple has been reportedly working on its own version for an extended period. According to a report from April 2024, LG Innotek, one of Apple's suppliers in Korea, is developing under-display cameras that leave no visible cut when not in use. These systems employ a "freeform optic" multiple lens array designed to mitigate image distortion while maximizing brightness, compensating for light loss typically associated with cameras situated behind displays.

As Apple prepares to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the iPhone, the anticipation surrounding a hardware leap akin to the 2017 iPhone X which eliminated the Home button and introduced Face ID with a top-screen notch is palpable. However, whether Apple will adhere to its annual numerical naming convention, which would label the 2027 model as the iPhone 19, or opt for a commemorative title like "iPhone 20" to align with this significant milestone, remains uncertain. This decision could mirror the choice made in 2017 when Apple introduced both the iPhone 8 and the radically redesigned iPhone X.

Regardless of the naming strategy, a fully functional, all-glass iPhone would undoubtedly serve as a fitting tribute to two decades of innovation from Apples flagship product, setting the stage for the next era in mobile technology.