Apple still plans to release a bezel-less iPhone, but display and design issues persist

The dream of a frameless phone – a device made entirely of glass – has been stirring minds for a while now, fueling rumors of Apple’s revolutionary plans. And while the idea of such a device looks futuristic, new reports suggest that realization remains a matter of the distant future.

And while the idea of such a device looks futuristic, new reports suggest that realization remains a matter of the distant future.

Vision and Challenges

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Apple’s idea isn’t just about removing bezels. The company aims to create a flat screen that takes up the entire surface of the device, with crisp, polished edges, like you’re holding a perfectly smooth pebble. But that requires solving a lot of engineering challenges, including placing all the electronics underneath the display without sacrificing durability or usability.

Apple’s vision is to create a flat screen that takes up the entire surface of the device, with crisp, polished edges, like you’re holding a perfectly smooth pebble.

In collaboration with Samsung Display and LG Display, Apple is exploring next-generation technology for OLED screens. However, developers are facing major hurdles:

Apple is working with Samsung Display and LG Display to develop the next generation of OLED screens.

• Moisture and oxygen protection: Thin Film Encapsulation technologies for OLEDs are not yet reliable enough.
• Edge distortion: Adhesives used in frameless designs can cause visual defects on the edges of the screen.
• Antenna interference: The lack of frames can affect antenna performance, creating connectivity issues.

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Apple’s cautious approach

In contrast to competitors such as Samsung and Motorola, which have already introduced devices with curved or so-called “waterfall” screens, Apple is proceeding cautiously. Previous attempts by competitors have resulted in drawbacks such as glare, magnification effects at the edges of the screen and less durability. The consistent reduction of bezels in current iPhone models points to a strategy of incremental improvement rather than a rush to release an unfinished product.

iPhone 17 Slim/Air: a step into the future?”

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Rumors of an iPhone 17 Slim or Air, which will supposedly focus on design, could hint at Apple’s long-term ambitions. While these models won’t be frameless, they could be a starting point, testing out new technologies and pushing minimalism in design.

Realistic expectations

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Earlier reports claimed that Apple planned to release a frameless iPhone by 2026, but experts believe this timeline is too optimistic. The company remains committed to its dream, but is unlikely to unveil a device that sacrifices functionality for looks.

Apple’s goal is to make the device more functional.

An all-glass iPhone is more concept than reality at this point, which gives a glimpse of Apple’s vision for the future of smartphone design.