Apple's 2027 iPhone Sparks Race Among Chinese Manufacturers

Apple is quietly preparing a groundbreaking iPhone Pro model for 2027, marking the 20th anniversary of its iconic flagship. While details remain under wraps, industry insiders suggest it will feature a completely edge-to-edge display without any cutouts or notches — a first in the iPhone lineup. This ambitious design is already triggering a rapid response from competitors, particularly Chinese smartphone makers eager to beat Apple to the punch.

According to sources familiar with supply chain activities, several Chinese manufacturers have entered advanced testing phases for under-display camera systems and 3D facial recognition sensors. These technologies promise a cleaner, uninterrupted screen experience, and could debut in their flagship devices as early as next year — well before Apple’s official unveiling.

One of the driving forces behind this competition is the growing consumer demand for immersive displays. Under-display solutions not only eliminate visible camera holes but also pave the way for more innovative screen-integrated features, such as biometric authentication and improved augmented reality (AR) capabilities. Some prototypes from Chinese labs are said to achieve near-invisible camera placement without sacrificing image quality — a challenge Apple has reportedly been tackling for years.

Samsung, Apple’s largest rival in the U.S. smartphone market, has been more cautious. While the company has previously experimented with under-display cameras, such as in its Galaxy Z Fold series, it recently reverted to traditional punch-hole designs for performance consistency. However, analysts believe the upcoming iPhone 20 could push Samsung back into pursuing advanced under-display technology to remain competitive.

The 2027 iPhone isn’t the only major change in Apple’s roadmap. Industry leaks indicate that the company is planning multiple product overhauls over the next few years, including a redesigned iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, the introduction of an ultra-light iPhone 17 Air, and the release of the iPhone 18 featuring a punch-hole display. There are also reports of Apple’s first foldable iPhone, which could hit the market as early as next year, potentially reshaping the foldable phone segment.

Experts say that Apple’s strategy is shifting after several years of incremental hardware updates. The focus now appears to be on delivering dramatic design changes, integrating next-generation display technologies, and expanding device form factors to appeal to a wider range of consumers. For loyal Apple users, the next few years could bring some of the most exciting innovations since the original iPhone debuted in 2007.

As the countdown to 2027 begins, the race is no longer just about who makes the best smartphone — it’s about who can redefine the experience of using one. And with Chinese manufacturers pushing hard to unveil their own full-screen, under-display innovations ahead of Apple, the global smartphone market is poised for an intense and fast-paced technological showdown.