Apple's Under-Display Camera Technology Advancements: Miniaturized Dynamic Island and Under-Display Sensors Expected in 2026

Apple's Under-Display Camera Technology Advancements: Miniaturized Dynamic Island and Under-Display Sensors Expected in 2026Display industry analyst Ross Young and Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman have both predicted advancements in Apple's under-display camera technology, anticipating its implementation in Pro-series iPhones in 2026 or 2027. This will result in a smaller "Dynamic Island" and the relocation of some sensor components beneath the display

Apple's Under-Display Camera Technology Advancements: Miniaturized Dynamic Island and Under-Display Sensors Expected in 2026

Display industry analyst Ross Young and Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman have both predicted advancements in Apple's under-display camera technology, anticipating its implementation in Pro-series iPhones in 2026 or 2027. This will result in a smaller "Dynamic Island" and the relocation of some sensor components beneath the display.

Ross Young initially predicted a partial under-display camera implementation in the 2024 iPhone 16 Pro series, but later revised his prediction to 2026 (iPhone 18 Pro). Gurman's prediction aligns, suggesting a miniaturized Dynamic Island and the concealment of some sensor components under the screen in 2026 or 2027 Pro iPhones.

Current information suggests the iPhone 18 Pro series, supporting under-display Face ID, will likely retain a single punch-hole for the front-facing camera at the top of the screen similar to current Android designs. Other components with less stringent optical performance requirements will be hidden beneath the front panel. The Dynamic Island design essentially masks a "single-hole + elongated-hole" design through UI elements; the under-display solution will simplify this.

Ross Young also predicts a 120Hz refresh rate (via LTPO panels) for all iPhone models in 2025, meaning even base models will enjoy smoother displays. He further notes that Apple will use a "under-display + punch-hole" transitional approach for two years on Pro models before adopting it on base models, ultimately leading to a true "under-display camera."

Regarding under-display Face ID, Apple faces the challenge of improving infrared light transmittance. While infrared light can penetrate the display, its transmittance is extremely low. Placing it directly under the panel would significantly reduce the speed and security of facial recognition. Apple's latest patents show they're addressing this by removing some sub-pixels to allow infrared light to pass through the cover glass, enabling under-display 3D facial recognition. These missing sub-pixels will be imperceptible to the naked eye, with Apple using optimized algorithms to maintain consistent display quality.

This technological breakthrough paves the way for Apple's true under-display camera. Previous patents related to under-display Face ID highlight Apple's sustained efforts in this area.

Apple's under-display camera technology is not a sudden leap but a gradual process. Predictions and adjustments reflect the complexity and challenges involved. The transitional "under-display + punch-hole" approach demonstrates Apple's cautious balancing of technological maturity and user experience. Two years of use will allow Apple to gain experience in technology and software optimization, paving the way for the eventual full under-display camera technology.

The 120Hz refresh rate for all iPhones in 2025 further suggests preparation for widespread under-display camera technology. High refresh rate displays inherently increase technical difficulty, laying the groundwork for future integration. Higher refresh rates demand improved screen responsiveness and power management, technological advancements that also support the eventual under-display camera solution.

Apple's decision to initially implement the "under-display + punch-hole" solution on Pro models before extending it to base models reflects its product strategy. Pro models typically serve as platforms for technological innovation and testing, allowing for early testing and user feedback to inform the eventual rollout to base models. This mitigates risk and ensures a higher level of maturity and user experience when fully launching the under-display camera technology.

Based on current trends, Apple achieving an under-display camera in 2026 or 2027 is not unrealistic. Apple's strong technological capabilities and R&D capacity, coupled with its commitment to user experience, strongly support this goal. The actual launch date may shift due to further technological breakthroughs or other factors, but the eventual integration of under-display camera technology into iPhones is only a matter of time.

In summary, Apple's under-display camera technology is progressing steadily. A smaller Dynamic Island, the transitional "under-display + punch-hole" approach, and the widespread adoption of 120Hz refresh rates all indicate the technology's maturation and imminent application. In 2026 or 2027, we may see a truly bezel-less iPhone. This technological maturity requires not only technological breakthroughs but also perfect software and hardware integration and comprehensive user experience considerations, requiring Apple's continuous R&D and improvement. Ultimately, users will experience a more immersive and borderless visual experience.