The iPhone is poised for a significant design leap. For its 20th anniversary in 2027, Apple is apparently planning a model that will clearly distinguish itself from all previous generations. The centerpiece will be a true all-screen display without visible bezels. New information from the display industry suggests that the development of this design is progressing and is slowly approaching production readiness.
Since the introduction of the first iPhone in 2007, Apple has continuously refined the device. Larger displays, narrower bezels, and new display technologies have significantly changed its appearance over the years. A completely bezel-less iPhone has long been considered the logical next step. For its 20th anniversary, Apple could finally implement this idea consistently, presenting an iPhone that consists almost entirely of screen.
The 2027 anniversary iPhone as a milestone
The iPhone update for 2027 coincides with the product line's 20th anniversary. Internally, this model is apparently being treated as a special project. Accordingly, expectations for the design are high. Industry sources assume that Apple intends to develop an iPhone with a striking and technically sophisticated appearance. An edge-to-edge display is considered a key feature.
Four-sided curved OLED display without bezels
The centerpiece of the new iPhone design is expected to be a four-sided curved OLED panel. This technology allows the screen to wrap around the casing not only on the sides, but on all four edges. This could mean the entire front of the iPhone is made of display. According to industry sources, Apple is collaborating with LG Display and Samsung Display on the development. LG Display, in particular, is actively seeking production contracts for the 2027 model, while Samsung Display is currently considered more reserved.
The planned display would give the iPhone a true all-screen design. The goal is to eliminate any visible bezels. This would represent a step beyond previous edge or curved display concepts for Apple.
Earlier concepts and Apple's further development
An early implementation of a curved display was already demonstrated in 2014 with the Galaxy Note Edge. There, the screen extended beyond one side and displayed additional information, even when the main area was inactive. Apple's approach, however, differs significantly. Instead of individual curved edges, the display is intended to wrap seamlessly around the device on all sides. The effect would be an iPhone without traditional front bezels.
Technical challenges in production
Implementing this display design is technically demanding. According to sources, the concept requires a special process for bending the panel circuitry. Additionally, Apple is working on an especially thin version of the thin-film encapsulation (TFE). This TFE layer protects the OLED panel from moisture and oxygen and is crucial for the display's durability.
The complexity increases further with the planned integration of an under-display camera for Face ID. This technology is intended to allow all sensors to be placed invisibly beneath the screen. This would enable the iPhone display to operate in full-screen mode, without cutouts, notches, or elements like the Dynamic Island that disrupt its appearance.
Full-screen design and previous rumors
Rumors about an edge-to-edge iPhone for the anniversary have been circulating for several years. As early as 2023, it was reported that Apple had asked LG Display and Samsung Display to develop displays that completely eliminated the front bezels. Originally, it was speculated that this technology would be introduced with the iPhone 18 in 2026. However, development problems led to a one-year delay.
In retrospect, this new timeline fits well with the iPhone's 20th anniversary. It gives the anniversary model a unique selling point that clearly distinguishes it from its predecessors.
Face ID under the display and new casing
Face ID under the display has also been a topic of rumor for some time. Some reports suggest that this feature could be introduced earlier in the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models. However, it would be essential for the anniversary iPhone to implement the full all-screen design.
The changes to the display would likely also necessitate a new casing design. There is speculation that Apple is developing a completely new casing for this model, possibly made entirely of glass. This design could better complement the edge-to-edge display and further emphasize the premium nature of the iPhone.
An iPhone that aims to set new design standards
The iPhone for its 20th anniversary is already shaping up to be one of the most ambitious models in Apple's history. A four-sided curved OLED display, a true all-screen design without bezels, in-display Face ID, and a potentially completely new casing could significantly differentiate the 2027 iPhone from previous generations. Even though some technical hurdles remain, current developments show that Apple is closer to this goal than ever before. (Image: mariakray / DepositPhotos.com)
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