Apple Could Soon Ditch the Notch for an Under-Display Camera

Recent patents indicate that Apple is exploring ways to eliminate the notch and Dynamic Island on future iPhones, potentially through the use of under-display camera technology. The notch, which has long been criticized, could soon be replaced by a more seamless design.

Patent number ‘12124291’ reveals Apple’s possible solution to removing the notch without reintroducing thick bezels. The technology focuses on integrating a camera beneath the display, a method already seen in other smartphones, though with varying degrees of success. The key element in Apple’s approach is a bandpass filter, which selectively allows different wavelengths of light to reach the camera and Face ID sensors. For instance, when taking a selfie, the filter would permit visible light to pass through, ensuring high-quality photos. For Face ID, the filter would let infrared light pass through for reliable facial recognition.

However, under-display cameras have faced criticism for their inconsistent performance, especially when it comes to maintaining display quality and camera output. Apple is known for prioritizing the user experience and might be cautious about implementing this technology until it can guarantee top-tier results, especially given the importance of the camera in iPhone updates.

Rumors suggest that the iPhone 18 could be the first model to feature an under-display camera, but the release timeline remains uncertain. With Apple’s reputation for meticulous development, any final product is likely to maintain the company’s high standards. In the meantime, Apple continues to focus on AI advancements and addressing concerns with its software updates.