iPhone 18 Pro to Feature Smaller Display Hole and Under-Display Face ID

Apple might be heading toward a sleek new display change for its next iPhone Pro models. A Chinese leaker known as Digital Chat Station has hinted on Weibo that the tech giant is possibly working on a way to shrink the front-facing camera for the anticipated iPhone 18 Pro series.

Apple Testing HIAA Technology for a Smaller Camera Hole

The leaker suggests Apple is looking into a novel method called HIAA (Hole-In-Active-Area) technology. Developed by Samsung and others in the display game, this technique could help blend the camera seamlessly into the OLED screen, reducing visual clutter on the screen. Essentially, this involves precise laser micro-drilling to create a tiny opening right within the display itself, allowing the camera to take up less space compared to the current Dynamic Island.

Earlier this year, Digital Chat Station also pointed out that Apple might couple this development with under-display Face ID. If these claims hold water, it would mean a more uninterrupted iPhone display, save for a small camera hole peeking through.

Smaller Dynamic Island and Design Changes Expected

With this HIAA technology, the screen’s shape might see some tweaks—perhaps a nod to subtle shifts in the display’s curvature. While the exact positioning of the front camera remains a mystery, whispers in the tech community suggest that the Dynamic Island could just become smaller, making for a less intrusive interface while keeping it in place.

When it comes to the rest of the design, the iPhone’s rear is expected to stick with its familiar look. Reports suggest the iPhone 18 Pro will retain the plateau-style camera design seen in its predecessor, the iPhone 17 Pro. On the flip side, Apple might spice things up with an upgraded main camera sporting a more advanced variable aperture lens to enhance shots in different lighting.

Transparent Back and Steel-Shell Battery for Pro Max Model

In an unexpected twist, there are rumors that the iPhone 18 Pro Max might showcase a transparent section on its back, offering a peek at its inner workings—a move reminiscent of the approach used by Nothing phones. Additionally, there’s talk of Apple testing a steel-shell battery. This likely points to a stainless steel vapor chamber cooling system, which could promise better heat management during use.

Expected Launch Timeline

According to the report, Apple appears to be gearing up for a September 2026 launch of the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and a new model dubbed the iPhone Air. Following after, the standard iPhone 18 and the iPhone 18e might debut in spring 2027, part of what might be a strategic shift to a staggered release cycle.

These insights originate from Digital Chat Station on Weibo, with supporting info from The Information and supply chain reports tied to display technology developments.

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