Apple is reportedly planning a major overhaul of the iPhone by its 20th anniversary in 2027. This could mean a button-less, all-glass design, with the potential for under-display cameras and other significant changes. While specifics are still unclear, early reports suggest a premium device that may redefine Apple’s smartphone lineup for the next decade.
The Shift to All-Glass Design
Rumors circulating since last year indicate that Apple is aiming for a completely seamless iPhone by 2027. The goal is to eliminate all physical buttons—volume, power, and even the Action button—integrating them into the device’s frame with haptic feedback similar to MacBooks. This would require advanced vibration technology to simulate button presses, enhancing the user experience without compromising functionality.
Apple’s ambition extends to the display itself. Reports suggest they’re exploring an all-screen design without any cutouts, including the Dynamic Island. However, conflicting information from display analysts like Ross Young suggests this may not be feasible until 2030. A more likely scenario for 2027 is a minimized punch-hole cutout or a special anniversary edition with an entirely seamless display.
Display and Performance Upgrades
To achieve this streamlined look, Apple is considering advanced OLED technology from Samsung. This includes Color Filter on Encapsulation (CFoE), which removes the polarizing film to create a thinner, brighter, and more efficient display. The company is also expected to transition to 2nm chips, offering improved performance and power efficiency. Additionally, silicon anode batteries could provide higher energy density in a smaller form factor, allowing for longer battery life without increasing device size.
Camera Innovations
While details are scarce, there’s speculation about a 200-megapixel sensor in future iPhones, potentially arriving by 2028. The 2027 model may see enhancements in image processing, particularly in portrait and macro modes. Some reports also suggest that the front-facing camera could be placed under the display, further reducing bezels.
Naming and Pricing
The device’s official name remains uncertain. Apple might skip the “iPhone 19” and go straight to “iPhone 20” or “iPhone XX,” echoing their decision to jump from iPhone 8 to iPhone X in 2017. Pricing is also unknown, but given the expected premium features, it could match or exceed the current high-end iPhone Pro Max models. The iPhone X debuted at $1,000, so a similar pricing strategy for the anniversary edition is plausible.
The iPhone 20 represents Apple’s ambition to innovate beyond incremental changes. By pushing the boundaries of design and technology, the company could set a new standard for smartphone aesthetics and functionality. While many details remain speculative, the potential for a radically redesigned iPhone by 2027 is high, positioning Apple for continued dominance in the evolving mobile landscape.
