Apple Reportedly Plans to Introduce iPhone with Under-Display Camera to Replace Notch in 2026

Apple is reportedly working on developing an iPhone model with an under display camera (UDC), which could be introduced in the next few years. The UDC technology, being developed by South Korean company LG, aims to hide the camera cutout on a smartphone’s display, allowing for a seamless viewing experience while playing games or watching videos. Apple plans to replace the Dynamic Island display cutout with sensors located under the display for the camera and Face ID.

The Elec reports that LG Innotek, the electronic component manufacturing arm of LG Group, is currently in advanced development of the UDC system. One of the main challenges with under display cameras is the limited light transmission, resulting in lower-quality images compared to traditional selfie cameras. However, LG Innotek’s “freeform optic” lens technology is expected to overcome this issue. The company has already applied for patents related to this technology, which aim to reduce distortions and image blurring by adjusting the thickness of the surrounding lens.

According to The Elec, Apple is not expected to implement the UDC module in its smartphones until 2026. Before introducing the under display camera, Apple is reportedly planning to incorporate an under display sensor for Face ID authentication. Although this development suggests the possibility of future iPhone models with a fully “all-screen” design, it is important to note that other companies have already released phones with under-display cameras. Chinese smartphones like the ZTE Axon 30 5G and Xiaomi Mi Mix 4, as well as Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Fold 5, have already implemented low-resolution selfie cameras under the display.