Development of iPhone's Under-Display Camera Underway, But Concealing Face ID Takes Priority

The iPhone is reportedly developing an under-display camera that will give the device a seamless look. This technology will eliminate visible holes on the screen, providing users with an unobstructed experience. The under-display camera is still in development, but reports suggest that Apple will prioritize hiding the Face ID under the screen as a first step.

LG Innotek, one of Apple’s Korean suppliers, has already started developing the under-display front camera. This technology will eliminate the need for a punch hole on the screen, resulting in a seamless design. “Light loss” is one of the main challenges in developing this technology, as the camera is hidden beneath the glass display before reaching the lens. LG Innotek is working on a technology called “freeform optic” to address this challenge.

While LG works on the under-display camera, Apple will first adopt under-screen Face ID technology to hide the entire module from the device. Apple has continually innovated its Face ID and front camera designs, and the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 will feature the “Dynamic Island” design, which reduces the notch and integrates a UI for additional elements.

Apple is also working on the development of foldable smartphones, although the specific device has not yet been determined. Apple recently adopted OLED technology for the iPhone 15 lineup, which was released last October. However, there have been controversies surrounding the OLED burn-in issue and overheating problems on the iPhone 15 Pro Max devices.

Apple both develops its own technologies and partners with other companies to fulfill its needs. For example, the iPhone 15 lineup used Samsung’s OLED screens. The current development of the under-display camera is being carried out by LG Innotek, another Korean supplier, and will be available after the under-screen Face ID implementation.