The bazel-free iPhone turned out to be tricky: when the brand new Apple device may see the light of day
Apple has faced significant technical challenges on its way to creating an iPhone with a completely bezel-less display. The company has been working with leading display manufacturers Samsung Display and LG Display, but the development of the revolutionary technology has proved more difficult than expected.
According to a report by the Korean publication The Elec, mass production may not start until 2026. This delay casts doubt on the company's initial plans to introduce the novelty in the 18th iPhone series.
Apple's main goal is to create a display that avoids the disadvantages of curved screens, such as the "magnifying glass effect." It is planned that the screen will have a characteristic flat design with angular sides smoothly expanding at the edges, as it is already implemented in some Apple Watch models. Insiders describe this aesthetic as "pebble-like", which emphasizes the innovative approach.
The main difficulties arise from the need to adapt Thin Film Encapsulation (TFE) technologies to protect OLED displays and Optical Clear Adhesive (OCA) to ensure reliable bonding. Currently, engineers are facing problems with image distortion at the side edges and the vulnerability of screens to mechanical damage.
A bezel-free iPhone 18 concept.
Source: The Elec
Manufacturers must also find a way to integrate the display without compromising critical components such as the iPhone's antenna. Given the complexity of these tasks, negotiations between Apple and suppliers are still ongoing, making it difficult to meet the previously announced deadlines.
Apple is trying to avoid the mistakes of its competitors. For example, Xiaomi's concept with a quad-curved waterfall display was less successful due to noticeable optical distortions. Thus, the company is working on a unique technology that will harmoniously combine functionality and aesthetics.
It is known that Apple planned to introduce the "zero-bazel" phone in three years, but the reality may make us wait longer. At the same time, the delay will allow the manufacturer to improve all technical aspects.
So far, there is no official statement on the release dates. However, experts predict that the bezel-less iPhone could become Apple's key product, providing the company with an advantage in the fiercely competitive smartphone market.
For the upcoming bezel-free iPhone to set new standards of quality and design, the company neto overcome a number of technological challenges before its release.
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