Apple may be preparing a major redesign for the iPhone’s 20th anniversary in 2027. Early supply-chain reports suggest that the company is exploring a phone with a more seamless glass body, hidden front-facing hardware and new button technology.
The anniversary model could arrive in September 2027, around ten years after the iPhone X changed the design of Apple’s smartphone lineup. Some reports suggest that the device could be called the iPhone 20 Pro, although Apple has not confirmed its name.
All details discussed here are unconfirmed. Apple has not announced the phone, its design or its specifications.
A phone that looks like one piece of glass
One of the biggest reported design changes is a four-curved glass body. The display glass may extend towards all four sides, helping reduce the visible metal frame around the screen.
The goal would be to create a more seamless front and side appearance. Instead of looking like a traditional phone with a clear border around the display, the anniversary model could give the impression of one continuous glass surface.
This would be a major change if Apple can produce it at scale. Curved glass can make a device look different, but it also creates challenges involving durability, touch accuracy, reflections and repair costs.
Under-screen Face ID and camera are being discussed
Another reported feature is under-screen Face ID. This would place the face-recognition hardware below the display instead of keeping all components visible around the screen area.
Apple is also said to be testing an under-screen front camera. If the company can make the technology work well, it could reduce the need for a visible camera opening.
However, under-screen cameras can face image-quality problems because light has to pass through the display panel. The technology needs to deliver good results in different lighting conditions before it can be used in a premium phone.
There is still a possibility that Apple will keep some visible display elements if the under-screen system is not ready for mass production.
Solid-state buttons could change the way the phone feels
The anniversary iPhone is also rumoured to use solid-state buttons. These buttons would not move in the same way as traditional mechanical controls.
Instead, pressure sensors would detect a user’s touch, while a haptic motor would create feedback that feels similar to pressing a physical button.
This could reduce the number of moving parts and openings in the body. It may also help Apple improve water and dust protection, although the final result would depend on the design and sealing system.
Apple has used similar technology in the solid-state Home button on earlier iPhones and the Force Touch trackpad on MacBooks. Bringing the idea to more controls would be a much bigger step.
Possible changes to the chip and camera
Early reports also mention a second-generation 2nm processor, possibly called A21 Pro. A new chip could improve performance and energy efficiency while giving the phone more power for on-device AI features.
Another reported idea is vertically stacked DRAM, which could increase memory bandwidth. Higher bandwidth can help demanding AI workloads access data more quickly, although the real-world benefit would depend on Apple’s software and hardware design.
The camera system may also receive a new stacked image sensor and LOFIC technology. This could improve the amount of light and detail captured in bright and dark areas of a photo.
These features remain part of the rumour cycle. Apple has not confirmed the chip name, camera hardware, battery design or modem for the 2027 anniversary phone.
Why the anniversary model matters
The original iPhone changed the smartphone market, while the iPhone X introduced a new design direction with an edge-to-edge display and Face ID. A 20th anniversary model could be another opportunity for Apple to introduce a major visual and hardware change.
But a new design will need to be more than a visual update. Buyers will also expect strong battery life, reliable cameras, durable glass, good repair options and a useful software experience.
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Frequently asked questions
When could the 20th anniversary iPhone launch?
Current reports point to September 2027, but Apple has not confirmed a launch date.
Will it be called iPhone 20 Pro?
That name has appeared in reports, but Apple has not confirmed the final product name.
Will the phone have an under-screen camera?
Apple is reportedly testing the technology, but it is not confirmed for the final retail model.
Passionategeekz Take
The 20th anniversary iPhone could become one of Apple’s most interesting hardware projects. A more seamless glass body and solid-state buttons would represent a major design change if they reach the final product.
However, 2027 is still some distance away. Apple could change the design, remove features or delay technologies that are not ready for mass production. For now, these reports should be treated as early rumours rather than final specifications.
[Via]