Forget iPhone 18, iPhone 20 may be the upgrade you want

Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 18 series soon. However, a new leak hints that the Cupertino giant may be planning for much bigger updates with the 20th anniversary iPhone for 2027, including a new micro-curved OLED display. Here are all the details.

In Short

• Apple likely planning big design change for iPhone 20
• iPhone 20 may use custom micro-curved OLED panel from Samsung
• iPhone 20 is expected to launch in fall 2027

Apple is yet to announce the iPhone 18 series, but rumours of the 20th anniversary iPhones keep surfacing online. While the Cupertino giant is expected to make some fine tweaks with the upcoming iPhones, it seems that the company has some big plans for 2027 when the iPhone turns 20. And a key part of these plans could be a new micro-curved OLED display from Samsung.

According to reliable tipster Digital Chat Station, Apple is working with Samsung on a custom micro-curved OLED display, which is expected to be brighter and thinner than current panels.

Single slab of glass

In 2017, Apple launched the iPhone X, which marked ten years of the iPhone. The iPhone X came with an edge-to-edge display (except for a notch), something that was considered revolutionary at the time. A decade later, Apple reportedly wants to go a step further, with an iPhone that may resemble the company’s former design chief, Jony Ive’s idea of a 'single slab of glass.’

That is, the 20th anniversary iPhone could come with a display that has virtually no bezels. To make this happen, Apple likely wants a curved OLED panel. As per reports, the company wants an equal-depth quad-curved panel that uses very shallow 'micro-curves' rather than the more aggressive 'waterfall' edges seen on some existing Samsung displays.

The aim, according to the reports, is to make the phone feel softer in the hand, make edge swipes feel more natural, reduce distortion around the sides, and create a bezel-free look without increasing accidental touches while holding the device.

It is believed that if Apple goes ahead with this display, Samsung may follow suit by using a similar panel for its own Galaxy S28 lineup in 2028.

Under display Face ID?

The rumoured broader goal for the 20th anniversary iPhone is said to be a high-end all-glass iPhone without display cutouts. Though there are some contradicting reports on what Apple may choose to do.

Some believe that Apple may not be able to get the entire Face ID setup under the display for the 2027 iPhone. On the other hand, some leakers believe that this can still be done in time.

If Apple cannot place every component under the display, it is possible that the company may use an under-display Face ID along with a small hole-punch cutout for the front camera. Recent rumours also indicate Apple is still testing an under-display iPhone camera for 2027.

iPhone 20, here is what we know

The iPhone 20 is expected to be launched in the fall of 2027. It is unclear if the rumoured changes will be carried across the entire iPhone line-up, or if the company will keep it to high-end models only. Apart from the design, we can expect bumps in performance and battery life, as well as improved imaging capabilities. Though details are scarce as of now.

- Ends