Summary of Key Points
This article reveals key signs of the new iPhone's improvements based on hidden code from the iOS 27 beta version: the dynamic notch, which has been in use for four generations, will be significantly reduced in size from 20.7mm to 16.57mm. This reduction is driven by the adoption of two core technologies—under-screen sensors and super lenses. Not only will the dynamic notch allow for the simultaneous display of three real-time tasks, but it also marks a crucial step towards Apple's goal of creating an "all-frontal, hole-free" iPhone. Essentially, this reflects Apple's approach to creating a closed-loop product where software and hardware work seamlessly together.
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Detailed Explanation of Each Point
1. Why is a 4-mm reduction considered a more practical upgrade than a higher chip performance?
Many people might think that a reduction in the notch size is just a matter of technical specifications, but it actually addresses a major issue that has affected the daily usability of the dynamic notch over the past four generations:
The previous 20-mm notch divided the top status bar into three sections: the left side displayed the time, the middle part housed both the physical notch and the interactive area for the dynamic notch, and the right side displayed icons for signal, Wi-Fi, and battery level. Only two real-time tasks could be displayed at the same time; for example, while using a ride-hailing app, playing music, the status of a delivery order would either be obscured by the battery icon or hidden by the system, requiring users to switch to the app to check its progress.
With the notch size reduced by 4mm, the additional space is used to expand the status bar, allowing for the display of navigation, screen recording, and delivery order status. Icons for signal and battery level are no longer cramped together, making it much more convenient for users to check these details without having to frequently switch apps.
2. To achieve such a reduction, Apple had to overcome two technical challenges that few manufacturers have successfully addressed
Reducing the notch size by 4mm is not just about making a smaller hole in the screen. Apple had to shrink the four components previously located within the dynamic notch—the front camera, infrared camera, Face ID projection, and ambient light sensor—to half their size. They achieved this through two technologies that were previously only theoretical:
- Under-screen sensors: Components like the ambient light sensor, which do not require high imaging precision, are now hidden beneath the OLED screen. Just like the under-screen fingerprint sensors, these sensors are completely invisible to the user, and their functionality is not affected, freeing up a third of the notch space.
- Super lens technology: The Face ID lens used to consist of multiple layers of plastic and glass, which were bulky and prone to color distortion. Apple used TSMC's advanced chip manufacturing processes to create a super lens that is thinner than paper and precisely controls light, reducing the size of the entire optical system by half.
3. Apple predetermined the 16.57mm notch size in the system code, a hallmark of its closed-loop approach
Apple always ensures that software is ready before the hardware is released. Features like the notch on the iPhone X and the always-on display on the iPhone 14 Pro were implemented through hidden code in beta versions, which were then activated when the phones were released. This time, Apple programmed the system to only enable the "three-task display" feature on iPhones with a notch size of less than 16.57mm. Older models, even if updated to iOS 27, will not be able to use this new feature. This approach serves three purposes: it sets a standard for developers, ensuring new apps are designed for the smaller notch size; it prevents visual clutter on screens with different notch sizes; and it provides a clear reason for users to upgrade to the latest model.
4. The shrinking of the dynamic notch reflects Apple's shift from focusing on concealment to eliminating flaws
The dynamic notch was initially created as a workaround to address a design flaw. The large notch on the iPhone 14 Pro was necessary because the components for the front camera were too large to fit in a standard Android-style single-hole design. Apple transformed this flaw into an interactive feature with smooth animations. However, Apple has never intended to keep the notch permanently. The reduction from 20mm to 16mm is a gradual elimination of this design issue. In the next 1-2 years, when the front camera is also moved under the screen, the entire front of the phone will be screen, eliminating the need for the dynamic notch altogether. The current reduction in notch size is a technical preparation for the "all-screen" iPhone that will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the iPhone.
5. For consumers, this upgrade provides a clear decision-making point for upgrading
There's no need to rush into a new phone. Consider your current model:
- If you are using an iPhone 14 or an earlier model, which does not have a dynamic notch, upgrading to the iPhone 18 Pro will provide a noticeable improvement in functionality, especially with the ability to display three tasks simultaneously.
- If you are using an iPhone 15, 16, or 17 Pro, the upgrade may not be as significant. Apart from the smaller notch, there are no major new features. It might be better to wait for the all-screen iPhone to be released in a year, as the experience will be a qualitative leap.