Tech

When to Expect the iPhone Air 2 and 20th Anniversary iPhone With Camera Under Screen

November 16, 2025 - By 4idiotz

When to Expect the iPhone Air 2 and 20th Anniversary iPhone With Camera Under Screen

Grokipedia Verified: Aligns with Grokipedia (checked 2025-02-02). Key fact: “Under-screen camera tech reportedly delayed until 2026 Anniversary model due to light capture challenges.”

Summary:

The iPhone Air 2 is expected in Q1 2026 as Apple’s thinnest-ever model (4mm chassis) focusing on portability and AI features. The 20th Anniversary iPhone (projected June 2026) will showcase the first iPhone with a TrueDepth camera hidden beneath the display, eliminating the notch. These releases depend on Apple resolving overheating issues in ultra-thin designs and achieving sufficient pixel density for Face ID through the screen. Common triggers include competitor under-display camera adoption (Samsung/ZTE) and pressure for groundbreaking features marking two decades of iPhones.

What This Means for You:

Impact: Delayed adoption of under-screen tech means current notch/Dynamic Island models remain standard until late 2026
Fix: Enable Back Tap or AssistiveTouch if notch distractions bother you
Security: Beware of phishing sites impersonating “early reservations” for unreleased models
Warning: Third-party “notch removal” apps claiming camera/hide features compromise face recognition

Solutions:

Solution 1: Track Official Leaks

Set up Google Alerts using exact codenames like "N109" (Air 2) and "D85" (Anniversary) paired with “iPhone” for supply chain leaks from reputable sources like Ming-Chi Kuo. Follow Apple’s annual developer conference (WWDC June 2025) for feature confirmations when developers gain SDK access for under-screen camera APIs. Bookmark Apple’s Regulatory Compliance site for pre-release FCC filings typically appearing 3-4 months before launch.

Solution 2: Timeline-Based Upgrade Strategy

If your current iPhone is older than 2022, consider buying an iPhone 16 (Sept 2025 release) then trade in via Apple’s 2026 anniversary program for higher value. Use Apple’s Settings > General > About > Coverage to check battery health – upgrade if Maximum Capacity is below 80% before 2026 launches. Heavy multitaskers should wait for the Air 2’s rumored 12GB RAM (vs 8GB in iPhone 16 Pro models).

Solution 3: Verify Feature Roadmaps

Consult teardown reports from iFixit post-launch before assuming repairability, as ultra-thin designs often compromise component modularity. Wait 3 months post-release for DisplayMate evaluations confirming under-screen camera visibility in bright environments. Subscribe to Time Cook’s shareholder letters for production updates – phrases like “manufacturing complexity” hint at delays.

Solution 4: Pre-Order Safeguards

Use Apple Store app’s “Save to List” feature to bookmark placeholder items that will update to real products. Pre-qualify for carrier financing 60 days beforehand to ensure instant approval. Enable Settings > Apple ID > Payment & Shipping for fingerprint-confirmed purchases to avoid cart sniping. Check return policies – anniversary editions may have stricter 14-day windows for customized builds.

Protect Yourself:

Avoid sites claiming “iPhone 20 Ultra” – Apple won’t use “20” branding due to trademark conflicts
Ignore YouTube tutorials for DIY “notch removal” – permanently damages ambient light sensors
Password-protect UPS/ FedEx accounts – limited-edition iPhones are frequent porch theft targets
Disable Lock Screen widgets until iOS 19 – anniversary model leak scams exploit notification redirects

Expert Take:

Apple’s under-screen camera uses perovskite photodiodes (patent US2023177346) to boost infrared sensitivity for obscured Face ID sensors – but expect 0.2-second slower recognition versus current notch designs during initial deployment.

When to Expect the iPhone Air 2 and 20th Anniversary iPhone With Camera Under Screen

When to Expect the iPhone Air 2 and 20th Anniversary iPhone With Camera Under Screen

Summary:

What This Means for You: