Apple’s Dynamic Island feature, which began with the iPhone 14 Pro, has been a notable element of its iOS interface. This feature, integrating both hardware and software, replaced the traditional U-shaped display notch with a more contemporary capsule-shaped design positioned at the center top of the iPhone screen. Despite its innovative appearance, the feedback on the Dynamic Island was mixed. Initially exclusive to the Pro models, the feature made its way to standard iPhone units with the introduction of the iPhone 15.
Recent reports suggest that Apple may be preparing a new design for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, anticipated to be revealed in 2026. According to a post on Weibo by tipster Digital Chat Station, the new Pro models will feature a 6.27-inch display for the iPhone 18 Pro, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max will boast a larger 6.86-inch OLED screen. Both will utilize LTPO technology with a resolution of 1.5K.
In a significant departure from current designs, the tipster indicates that Apple plans to implement HIAA technology for the front-facing camera, relocating the Face ID components beneath the display and leaving only the selfie camera visible.
This contrasts sharply with the present Face ID setup, which is cleverly concealed under the Dynamic Island feature—a software element that expands or contracts based on user activity. The Dynamic Island consists of a combined oblong cutout for Face ID and a circular cutout for the selfie camera, cleverly masked with a black display overlay.
The move to HIAA, or Hole-in-Active-Area, proposes that the selfie camera will be the only visible component, as the Face ID technology will be discreetly hidden beneath the screen. Observers are curious to see how Face ID functions through the display, especially given its reliance on infrared technology for illumination and facial recognition. Furthermore, many users may welcome the removal of the visible black blob, marking it as a premium feature for the Pro lineup.
If this design is adopted for the next generation of Pro models, it raises questions about the future of the Dynamic Island. With the Face ID system and selfie camera shrinking to a mere dot, Apple may opt for a more minimalistic approach, foregoing the animation of a capsule-like cover. This shift suggests a move towards streamlined aesthetics as hardware innovation progresses.
Notably, the recently released iPhone 16e remains the only new addition to Apple’s smartphone family without the Dynamic Island feature. This model represents an affordable transition from Touch ID to Face ID for the first time. Meanwhile, Touch ID continues to be available on Apple’s MacBook and budget iPad offerings.
