If you’re eagerly waiting for an iPhone with a bezel-free OLED display, it seems you may have to wait longer than initially expected. A recent industry report reveals that Apple’s highly anticipated zero-bezel iPhone display is facing delays, with no confirmed release date in sight. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the zero-bezel iPhone and why the OLED screen launch timeline remains uncertain.
According to The Elec, a South Korean news outlet known for reporting on Apple’s technology developments, the release of the zero-bezel OLED display for iPhones has been delayed. The technology is not yet ready for mass production, meaning the release of the all-screen iPhone might not happen until 2025 or even 2026.
Although The Elec did not completely dismiss the development of the zero-bezel iPhone display, it highlighted that Samsung and LG are working on potential candidates for the technology. However, due to ongoing technical challenges, these displays have not yet entered mass production, making it unlikely that the technology will be available for commercial use anytime soon.
Key Reasons Behind the Delay of the Zero-Bezel iPhone Display
The delay in launching the zero-bezel iPhone display is primarily due to a few significant technical challenges that need to be overcome:
1. Camera and Face ID Integration
One of the major obstacles is the integration of the front camera and Face ID sensors beneath the display. Samsung is reportedly facing challenges with transmittance, which refers to the camera’s ability to function effectively while hidden beneath the screen’s active pixels. Overcoming this issue is crucial for ensuring that the camera and Face ID technology work seamlessly under the OLED display.
2. Advanced Display Technology Requirements
Apple has stringent requirements for the OLED display. Specifically, Apple has requested the use of Thin Film Encapsulation (TFE), which prevents moisture from entering the organic LEDs, and Optically Clear Adhesive (OCA), which ensures near-perfect color reproduction and prevents color distortion, especially along the slightly curved edges of the screen. This advanced technology adds significant complexity to developing a zero-bezel iPhone.
3. Durability Issues
A bezel-free iPhone design could be more prone to damage compared to current iPhone models. The absence of bezels could impact the phone’s durability, making it more vulnerable to physical damage. Apple will need to address these durability concerns to ensure the device meets its high standards for reliability and longevity before it can be released to the public.
Until these technical challenges are addressed, Apple is expected to delay the launch of the zero-bezel iPhone, despite the concept being an exciting prospect for fans. While the bezel-less iPhone remains a potential game-changer, the current obstacles suggest that we may not see the first model for several more years.