Chinese Smartphone Makers Test Under-Display 3D Face Unlock Ahead of Apple

Several Chinese smartphone manufacturers are reportedly testing prototypes that integrate 3D facial recognition sensors beneath the display, eliminating the need for visible notches or punch-hole camera cutouts. The information comes from a recent Weibo post by prominent leaker Digital Chat Station, suggesting that under-display Face ID-style authentication could debut on Android before Apple’s rumored 2026 rollout.

Combining Under-Display Cameras with 3D Biometrics

The new developments represent an attempt to merge two previously separate technologies. Devices like the Honor Magic 7 Pro already support 3D face unlock, though they use visible pill-shaped cutouts for sensors. Meanwhile, ZTE’s nubia Z70S Ultra features an under-display selfie camera using 2D imaging. To date, no commercially released smartphone offers both 3D biometric security and a completely hidden front-facing camera system.

The challenge lies in accurately capturing depth data through multiple layers of the screen without compromising facial recognition quality or speed. Previous implementations of under-display cameras have struggled with degraded image quality and inconsistent performance, raising doubts about whether 3D mapping modules can function effectively in this setup. Reports suggest Chinese OEMs are experimenting with new hardware sourced from suppliers like BOE and OFilm to address these limitations.

Android Could Beat Apple to Market

Although no launch timelines or specific brands have been confirmed, supply chain chatter points to Xiaomi, Vivo, OPPO, and Huawei as likely participants in the current testing phase. If successful, these manufacturers could beat Apple to the punch. The Cupertino giant is rumored to be developing an under-display Face ID system for its iPhone 18 Pro lineup, tentatively expected in 2026. However, some analysts now believe the transition could be delayed until 2028 due to ongoing engineering challenges.

While Apple’s Face ID uses a structured-light dot projector for high-accuracy depth mapping and liveness detection, Chinese prototypes reportedly rely on similar hardware. Still, no third-party security certifications have been disclosed, meaning claims of Face ID-level security remain unverified. This contrasts with earlier Android developments like Trinamix’s under-display facial recognition system, which passed spoofing tests in lab environments but has yet to reach commercial phones.

The pursuit of full-screen, notchless designs continues to push smartphone manufacturers toward new biometric innovations. If these under-display 3D systems can match the reliability of existing face unlock methods while delivering a more seamless user experience, they may mark a turning point in the evolution of mobile authentication.

Sources: Phandroid, GSMArena

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By Ali Nassar-Smith