● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportMedium impact1 neutral
Apple embeds Face ID module beneath iPhone 18 Pro display
Key points
- Face ID module is now beneath the iPhone 18 Pro display.
- Required new pixel layout with larger gaps for IR light.
- Pixel density over the module is reduced by half.
- Apple compensates for reduced density by increasing pixel brightness.
- This change reduces the size of the Dynamic Island.
Face ID Integration in iPhone 18 Pro
The iPhone 18 Pro features an embedded Face ID module beneath its display. This integration represents a step towards Apple's long-term design objective of a single slab of glass for the iPhone, aiming to place all necessary technology under the screen.
Engineering Challenges and Solutions
Embedding Face ID presented a challenge because infrared (IR) light, essential for Face ID, cannot pass through standard display pixels. Apple engineers developed a new pixel layout with larger gaps between pixels in the module area. This design allows IR light to pass through while maintaining display quality.
The pixel density in the Face ID module area is reduced by half. To prevent this from causing a visibly dimmer section, Apple increases the brightness of these specific pixels. An IR pass filter is also used to block visible light, further concealing the components.
Impact on Display and Future Design
The embedded Face ID module is not visible during everyday use. This achievement has allowed Apple to reduce the size of the Dynamic Island, which now supports three live activities instead of two. The company's future plans include embedding the front-facing camera beneath the display, though current image quality compromises are still being addressed.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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Reporting from
Apple has integrated the Face ID module under the display in the iPhone 18 Pro, a step towards its goal of a full-screen device. This engineering change required a new pixel layout to allow infrared light passage without visible display degradation, enabling a smaller Dynamic Island.