Apple’s next-generation iPhone lineup is undergoing significant design shifts, with a particular focus on integrating advanced front-facing camera and biometric systems. However, the iPhone Air 2—expected to prioritize slimness—is facing technical challenges that could prevent it from adopting an under-display Face ID system.
Recent reports indicate that Apple has been testing under-display TrueDepth sensors for its premium Pro models, where thickness constraints are less of a concern. These sensors would house the front-facing camera and Dynamic Island feature in a corner-mounted configuration, streamlining the device’s aesthetic while maintaining functionality. Yet, for the iPhone Air 2, industry insiders suggest that achieving the necessary structural integrity for such a design is proving difficult.
The hurdle stems from Apple’s push to maintain a compact form factor without compromising on internal component placement. Under-display Face ID requires precise alignment of optical and sensor layers, which typically demands more space than traditional front-facing modules. This has led to speculation that the iPhone Air 2 may revert to a standard notch-based Face ID or even reintroduce Touch ID, similar to its upcoming foldable counterpart.
This development comes amid broader changes for Apple’s iPhone lineup, including rumors of corner-mounted Dynamic Island placements and potential satellite communication features in higher-tier models. While the Pro models are expected to lead with under-display innovations, the Air series may need to balance design ambitions with engineering realities, potentially delaying or altering its biometric approach.
Key specs for the iPhone Air 2 remain speculative at this stage, but if it follows the trend of previous Air models, it is likely to feature a more affordable price point while retaining core performance and battery life. The device’s release is anticipated in late 2026 or early 2027, pending further refinements.
For now, Apple’s focus appears to be on refining the under-display Face ID for its Pro models, where the technical feasibility is more assured. Whether the Air series will eventually adopt this technology remains an open question, with industry watchers closely monitoring how Apple resolves these thickness constraints in future iterations.
