Apple is preparing an iPhone with a completely frameless screen by 2027

The Korean publication ETNews reports on Apple's ambitious plans to radically update the iPhone design for the 20th anniversary of the legendary smartphone. The company is developing a device with a completely frameless display that will wrap around all four edges of the case.

Unlike modern smartphones with only curved side edges, the new iPhone will have a screen that smoothly flows along the top, bottom and side edges. This will create the effect of a solid glass monolith without traditional frames.

Bloomberg confirms the information, adding details about "mostly glass curved iPhone without any cutouts". Information also cites sources claiming a truly edgeless display in at least one 2027 model.

While we wait for midterm updates, including Iphone 17 Pro, Apple is already laying the foundations for a revolutionary leap. Each new generation of iPhone will gradually bring the company closer to the goal of completely getting rid of frames and cutouts. Counterpoint Research Vice President Ross Young confirms that this process will be phased and will stretch over several years. According to The Information, the iPhone 18 Pro will receive a sub-screen Face ID, leaving only a miniature hole for the front camera.

Implementation of such a design requires solving complex engineering tasks. Apple will have to place all sensors, cameras and speakers under the display. LG Innotek is already working on sub-screen cameras with a "free-form" multi-lens system to minimize distortion.

The company is also developing a new OLED driver chip based on the 16nm process instead of the current 28nm, which will significantly improve energy efficiency. Additionally, the use of silicon batteries to increase energy density is considered.

The bending of the screen on all sides creates new voltage points, potentially reducing the strength of the device. it also causes difficulties in placing sensors (for example, the IR camera, which is part of Face ID), proximity and lighting sensors, cameras and speakers.

The proposed design will require changes in the way the user interacts with the device. In the absence of frameworks, new algorithms for random palm touch recognition will most likely have to be implemented, as well as potentially changing the gesture navigation system.

Negotiations with Samsung Display and LG Display on the introduction of advanced technologies will already begin in the near future. If Apple overcomes all technical hurdles, the iPhone 2027 could be the most significant design update since the iPhone X.

Such a revolutionary approach will be a worthy way to celebrate two decades of Apple's most influential product.