the prediction that with the 2023 generation, i.e. iPhone 15, the base iPhone models will move to the Dynamic Island style front facing camera. Now, DSCC has predicted when the base models will transition to ProMotion displays, Apple’s brand name for fast refresh rate, and it won’t be this year.
We’ve already decided that the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus will forego 120Hz and Always On Display Mode this year, instead removing the notch. According to Young’s new statistics, even next year’s models, such as the iPhone 16, will use a standard LTPS panel with a refresh rate of 60Hz. The DSCC predicts the following timeline:
It appears that Apple wishes to maintain an obvious distinction between iPhone Pro and standard displays. It will be ProMotion if it is not the Dynamic Island. When ProMotion is not available, an under-display FaceID will be used.
Last year’s predictions indicated that the FaceID system, as well as the selfie camera, would be hidden beneath the display by 2024. That now appears unlikely; it may have been moved back to 2025 and the release of the iPhone 17.
It’s worth noting that this timetable implies that the FaceID will go underground first (which has never happened before), while the camera will remain above ground via a punch hole. (UD cameras have been around for a few years on Android now). The iPhone Pro versions will not get an under-display camera until 2027, with the iPhone 19 series.
This will also be the first iteration of base iPhones with an under-display FaceID system – yet another way for Apple to distinguish between Pro and vanilla iPhones. Of course, in the meantime, the basic models will be improved in other ways.
