Apple working on under-display face ID, all-screen iPhone expected: Mark Gurman

Apple is reportedly preparing to launch its iPhone 17 series later this year, with Bloomberg's Mark Gurman providing insights into what consumers can expect. While the front design will receive only minor updates, the back of the Pro models is set for a more dramatic redesign. In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman highlights Apple's strategy to phase out the Dynamic Island, which currently encompasses the front camera and Face ID components. Although the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will showcase a new rear camera layout, the standard iPhone 17 is likely to maintain the design established by the iPhone 15 and the upcoming iPhone 16. Looking further ahead, Apple is adopting a two-phase approach to achieve a truly edge-to-edge display. The first phase, anticipated with the iPhone 18 series in 2026, aims to create a slimmer version of the Dynamic Island by relocating some Face ID components beneath the display. Nevertheless, the selfie camera may still be visible through a small hole-punch. The second, more transformative change is expected to arrive with the iPhone models set to debut in 2027, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the original iPhone. Gurman reaffirms earlier reports of Apple developing an all-screen device that incorporates under-display sensors and features a curved glass design, likely exclusive to the Pro models. These 2027 devices are also expected to align with a new design language introduced through upcoming iOS 26 and macOS 26 updates, which Gurman dubs the “LiquidGlass” user interface. If realized, this will represent one of the most significant aesthetic transformations of the iPhone since its inception in 2007. While some competitors, such as Nubia, have already launched smartphones with under-display cameras, Apple is known for its cautious approach to hardware advancements. As such, these anticipated developments may not be confirmed until the official launch approaches. Currently, Apple has not commented on these reports, and users are advised to take early leaks and rumors with caution.