iPhone 18 Pro again rumored to get under-screen Face ID

The iPhone 18 series is still far from its official launch, but that hasn’t stopped tipsters from leaking alleged specifications. The latest rumor comes from a Chinese tipster who claims Apple plans to pack as many features as possible into its Pro iPhone models in 2026, including an under-display Face ID.

According to Smart Pikachu on Weibo, Apple may introduce under-display Face ID to the iPhone 18 lineup by developing a new type of micro-transparent glass.

The leaker did not specify which 2026 iPhone models will receive under-display Face ID. Still, based on previous rumors, it is most likely to appear on the Pro and Pro Max variants, as the feature involves significant technical and engineering challenges.

While exact details remain unclear, MacRumors notes that this is similar to existing industry techniques that use micro-perforated or nano-patterned glass to selectively enhance IR transmission.

The leaker also added that Apple has asked its supply chain partners to accelerate production, which could be another indication that we might finally see under-display Face ID on the iPhone 18 Pro series.

Yet, we should take such claims with a pinch of salt, as there have been conflicting rumors about whether the iPhone 18 Pro will feature under-display Face ID. In May, The Information reported that Apple plans to move Face ID under the screen on the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, while adding a small hole in the top-left corner of the display for the selfie camera.

Analyst Ross Young also stated on X that some iPhone models launching in 2026 will feature under-screen Face ID, though Apple will still retain a smaller notch. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman likewise reported that Apple plans to use a smaller Dynamic Island on its 2026 iPhone models.

If the rumors about Apple changing its iPhone release cycle are to be believed, we should expect the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max to drop in September 2026, alongside the company’s first foldable iPhone.

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Posted Tuesday 9 December 2025 at 3:43 am AEST (my time).

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