Apple’s camera plans? Time for a new idea.
When the iPhone 16 came out, people weren’t happy with the new Camera Control button. It was supposed to be helpful, but most users thought it wasn’t very good. Now, it looks like Apple wants to try something different: a camera hidden under the screen. Some reports say Apple is looking at how Samsung does it, hoping this could be the next big thing for iPhones.
Let’s be honest: the iPhone 16 launch wasn’t great. Between the problems with Apple Intelligence and the confusing Camera Control button, it didn’t feel exciting. Apple knows it needs something better. And if the rumors are true, they’re thinking of using Samsung’s invisible camera idea.
But don’t expect a hidden selfie camera right away. A tipster named Digital Chat Station said on Weibo (shared by SamMobile) that Apple is testing under-screen Face ID for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. The goal? To make the notch smaller or maybe get rid of it, while still keeping Face ID working.
“The iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max is testing 3D Face ID under the screen with one small hole,” the tipster said. The regular models will keep the usual camera setup for now.
This is different from earlier reports. Before, people thought Apple would put the hidden tech in the regular iPhones first. But now, it looks like the Pro models will get it before the others. Either way, Apple clearly wants to make the screen look cleaner—and hiding the camera could help.
Of course, Samsung isn’t the only company trying this. Xiaomi worked on under-screen cameras in 2019. Microsoft tried in 2020. Google tested it in 2023. Some Chinese brands even sold phones with it. But there’s been one big problem:
“The camera wasn’t good,” one reviewer said.
It sounds cool to hide a camera under the screen—until you realize the screen blocks light, making photos blurry or dull. Samsung’s version on the Galaxy Z Fold phones still doesn’t look great. But Apple might have a smart solution.
Instead of using the hidden camera for selfies, Apple may only use it for Face ID. This way, it doesn’t need to take clear photos—it just needs to scan your face. Apple is also adding a special infrared light under the screen to help Face ID work better.
If this is true, it’s a clever idea. It avoids the problem of bad photos by focusing only on facial recognition.
The big question: will it come soon enough to help Apple? The iPhone 17 needs to impress people after a tough year. Fans are waiting for something exciting. I’m waiting for something exciting. Apple, please give us a phone that’s more than just a small upgrade.
One thing’s clear: the Camera Control button wasn’t the answer. But maybe the next big thing for the iPhone will be something you can’t even see.
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