Apple could be preparing one of its most dramatic design shifts in years with the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro series. According to new leaks, the next generation Pro models might finally abandon the familiar Dynamic Island design and adopt a more minimal hole punch camera layout, giving the display an even cleaner look. While Apple has made subtle adjustments to the display cutout in recent years, this rumored change would represent a major step toward full screen minimalism.
The Dynamic Island first appeared on the iPhone 14 Pro, replacing the long standing notch with a clever combination of hardware cutouts and software animations. Initially praised for its utility and aesthetics, the Dynamic Island eventually made its way to all iPhone 15 models. But by 2026, Apple may be ready to move on. The latest rumor, coming from a reliable source on Chinese platform Weibo, suggests that Apple plans to implement a hole in active area display for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. This means only the selfie camera would be visible as a small punch hole, while the more complex Face ID system will be integrated beneath the display panel itself.
This advancement would be possible using under display sensor technology, allowing Apple to hide components like the flood illuminator and infrared camera used in Face ID beneath the OLED screen. The result would be a virtually uninterrupted viewing experience, with only a tiny front facing camera dot interrupting the otherwise seamless screen. Apple reportedly plans to use LTPO panels with a 1.5K resolution for both devices. The iPhone 18 Pro could feature a 6.27 inch display, while the Pro Max variant is said to come with a 6.86 inch screen.
While Android manufacturers have explored similar under display camera technologies, Apple’s integration of Face ID into this layout would mark a significant leap. It remains to be seen how effective Face ID will be when placed under the display, considering the precision and reliability required for biometric authentication. However, Apple has consistently demonstrated patience in adopting new hardware features only when they are refined enough to meet their high standards.
This shift also raises questions about the future of Dynamic Island. If the Face ID system is fully hidden, Apple may not need the animated capsule shaped overlay that has become a staple of the iPhone user interface. While Apple could still retain some version of the Dynamic Island through software to support live activity animations and app interactions, its role may be less essential than before.
If these reports are accurate, the iPhone 18 Pro series could be one of the most advanced and minimalist smartphones Apple has ever released. It reflects Apple’s ongoing commitment to pushing boundaries in both design and functionality. While the change is not expected until 2026, it is already generating excitement among tech enthusiasts and iPhone fans alike.
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