Apple Projected to Release 20th Anniversary iPhone in Fall 2027

Apple Projected to Release 20th Anniversary iPhone in Fall 2027

Design and Display Upgrades Aim for a Single Slab of Glass

Former Apple design chief Jony Ive long described his vision for the iPhone as resembling a single slab of glass. According to 9to5mac.com, production facilities have already finished renovations in preparation for manufacturing, with quality reported to match that of the first-generation iPhone Air. Rumors indicate the design will feature a curved all-glass and ceramic back panel paired with an edge-to-edge display.

Unlike the aggressively curved waterfall edges found on some Samsung panels, reports indicate Apple is pursuing an equal-depth quad-curved design with shallow micro-curves. This configuration is intended to make edge swipes feel more natural and minimize on-screen distortion. The display panel is expected to curve down across all four edges to establish a borderless effect, utilizing an ultra-thin film encapsulation layer to protect the OLED panel from moisture and air. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has described the concept as a curved iPhone devoid of display cutouts.

Under-Display Tech and Sizing Options

Anticipated display specifications include two size options roughly matching the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max formats at 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches. The larger model could potentially be marketed as a 7-inch device due to its slimmer bezels and all-screen layout. Reports also point toward the long-awaited integration of Face ID modules embedded beneath the display, alongside hopes that the front-facing camera and speaker will also be concealed under the screen. However, supply chain analysts such as DSCC’s Ross Young have cautioned that under-display integration may not be fully ready, leaving a smaller Dynamic Island in place.

Internal Components, Solid-State Buttons, and Battery Tech

Both anniversary models are expected to utilize a second-generation 2-nanometer A21 chip shared with the second-generation foldable iPhone, alongside potential high bandwidth memory utilizing vertically stacked DRAM connected via through-silicon vias. Traditional clickable buttons are rumored to be replaced by solid-state buttons equipped with haptic feedback to enhance water resistance. These buttons have reportedly passed functionality tests involving gloves, wet hands, extreme temperatures, and fitted cases, supported by an ultra-low energy microprocessor that keeps them operational even when the handset is powered off or depleted of battery.

Additional upgrades point toward new battery technology and reverse wireless charging capabilities. While rival manufacturers have increasingly adopted silicon-carbon batteries to pack larger capacities into existing physical spaces, Apple’s implementation remains part of ongoing industry developments and testing.