A leak has renewed rumors of an under-screen Face ID in the iPhone 18 Pro
By ForGeeks
A new leak from user Smart Pikachu on Weibo claims that Apple is planning to introduce an under-screen Face ID camera in the iPhone 18 Pro in 2026.
The ongoing debate over under-screen biometrics technology has gotten another round after a report that Apple is testing the process using micro-transparent glass. According to the leak, the technology transmits infrared light through glass due to a “stitched” or “fused” structure. Previously, similar techniques – micro-perforation or nano-patterning – have been used to increase transparency in the infrared. The source notes that testing is at an advanced stage and suppliers are already preparing for a possible launch into production. This was first written about by MacRumors.
The Smart Pikachu has no confirmed track record of leaks about Apple products, though its publications have previously matched the Android device’s specs.
What’s known about the possible implementation of Face ID under the screen
The current leak only concerns the Face ID system. Even if the infrared sensors are moved below the display, part of the notch may remain: the front camera, light sensor, and proximity sensor remain in the area above the screen, which would need to be physically placed.
At least the front camera, light sensor, and proximity sensor will remain in the area above the screen.
Rumors about the timing of the rollout vary: one leak in September 2025 also pointed to an iPhone 18 Pro, but another that appeared in November denied the technology’s implementation in this generation.
What’s up with under-screen Touch ID and iPhone Fold
There are parallel discussions about an under-screen Touch ID system for the foldable iPhone, which is expected in 2026. Some sources say the sensor will be integrated into the display, but analyst Ming-Chi Kuo takes the opposite stance. He considers the implementation of an under-screen Touch ID unlikely due to the reduced thickness of the foldable case halves. In his estimation, the device will get Touch ID in the side button – similar to the iPad Air.
The timeline for the arrival of an under-screen Face ID remains uncertain. It’s possible that Apple could move to a different biometrics system before it gets to the point of mass adoption.
