Rumors are heating up about Apple’s potential leap in smartphone design. A recent leak from a trusted source on Chinese social platform Weibo claims the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will feature Face ID hidden beneath the display. If accurate, this would mark the first time Apple has removed visible facial recognition hardware from its premium models.
This under-display upgrade could allow Apple to offer a truly edge-to-edge screen, without the current Dynamic Island cutout. The feature, if launched, would likely roll out in 2026 with the iPhone 18 Pro lineup.
Trusted Source Fuels Speculation
The leak came from “Digital Chat Station,” a tipster with a solid record on Apple predictions. They reported that the 3D depth-sensing components used for Face ID will be hidden under the screen. This aligns with previous analyst reports suggesting that Apple has been working on this technology for several years.
While the iPhone 18 Pro models are expected to get this upgrade, the standard iPhone 18 and a rumored “iPhone 18 Air” might still include a visible front camera, keeping the advanced feature exclusive to the Pro line.
Past Hints and Engineering Challenges
Under-display Face ID has been rumored for previous iPhone models, including the iPhone 16 and 17. But technical hurdles—especially the need for infrared sensors to work through a screen—have reportedly delayed its debut. Now, multiple leaks and reports suggest the tech could finally be ready.
Still, nothing is confirmed. Apple has not officially commented, and as with all leaks, plans could change before launch.
Conclusion
If the rumor proves true, the iPhone 18 Pro could introduce a sleek new design and further separate the Pro models from the standard versions. For Apple fans, it’s another reason to keep an eye on 2026.
