As Apple approaches the 20th anniversary of the iPhone in 2027, rumors are swirling about a potentially radical redesign for the iconic device. Korean publication ETNews has reported that the company is exploring “four - edge bending” display technology, which would curve the screen around all four sides of the iPhone. This isn't just a simple left - and - right curve like some current smartphones; it includes curving the screen at the top and bottom as well.
The concept of a truly bezel - less iPhone is an exciting prospect. With such a design, content could flow seamlessly across all the edges of the device, creating a borderless visual experience. There would be no visible frame, giving the phone a sleek and futuristic look. This would mark a significant departure from the squared - off slab design that has been in place since 2020.
Bloomberg and The Information have also published similar reports. Bloomberg described the 2027 model as a “mostly glass, curved iPhone without any cutouts.” This indicates that Apple might be aiming to eliminate the notches and holes that are currently present on iPhones for features like the front - facing camera and Face ID sensors. By doing so, the company could achieve a more immersive and unobstructed display.
The rumored curved - glass design could be paired with other advanced technologies. ETNews suggests that Apple might use next - gen 16 nm display driver chips. These chips could potentially enhance the performance of the display, providing better color accuracy, higher refresh rates, or more power - efficient operation. Additionally, there are speculations about the use of pure silicon batteries. These batteries have the potential to store more lithium ions per gram compared to current batteries. As a result, they could lead to a significant increase in battery life without a substantial increase in the size of the battery, which is crucial for maintaining the sleek form factor of the iPhone.
If the rumors about the iPhone 17 Air are any indication, the 20th - anniversary iPhone could also be a super - thin device. A thinner profile, combined with the curved - glass design and advanced technologies, would make the phone not only visually appealing but also more comfortable to hold.
This isn't the first time Apple has made a major design change for a milestone anniversary. For the 10th anniversary of the iPhone, Apple introduced the iPhone X. It had an all - display design with no bezels at the top or bottom for the camera or the Touch ID home button. This model debuted Face ID and set the design direction for the iPhone for the next decade. Now, for the 20th anniversary, Apple seems to be aiming even higher.
The curved - glass design could also be well - integrated with the new Liquid Glass - based interface for iOS and other operating systems. Apple introduced a new user interface with iOS 26, called the 'Liquid Glass' design. This design features transparent layers, floating menus, and a glass - like finish, which showcases depth and fluidity. The new interface, combined with the curved - glass hardware design, could create a more cohesive and immersive user experience.
However, there are still some uncertainties. Display analyst Ross Young has expressed doubts about the inclusion of under - display Face ID and an under - display camera until 2030. Without these components being fully integrated under the display, achieving the all - glass look that many rumors suggest for the 20th - anniversary iPhone might be challenging. But Apple has been known to surprise the market with its technological advancements, so it's possible that the company could find a way to overcome these hurdles.
As the 2027 launch date approaches, iPhone enthusiasts and industry watchers will be eagerly waiting to see if these rumors materialize. A curved - glass iPhone would not only be a celebration of 20 years of the iPhone but also a statement of Apple's commitment to innovation and design leadership in the smartphone market.