X

Apple's 2020 iPhone might reduce TrueDepth notch with smaller camera

It'll likely use a smaller front-facing camera lens and could remove the notch entirely in 2021, analysts say.

Sean Keane Former Senior Writer
Sean knows far too much about Marvel, DC and Star Wars, and poured this knowledge into recaps and explainers on CNET. He also worked on breaking news, with a passion for tech, video game and culture.
Expertise Culture, Video Games, Breaking News
Oscar Gonzalez Former staff reporter
Oscar Gonzalez is a Texas native who covered video games, conspiracy theories, misinformation and cryptocurrency.
Expertise Video Games, Misinformation, Conspiracy Theories, Cryptocurrency, NFTs, Movies, TV, Economy, Stocks
Sean Keane
Oscar Gonzalez
iphone-x-notch-6142

The 2020 iPhone might reduce the size of the notch.

Josh Miller/CNET

Apple changed phone design with the iPhone X in 2017, introducing the world to the notched displays. In 2020, the company may give the notch a redesign so it takes up a little less space. 

Apple  is reportedly trying to cut down the size of its 2020 iPhone's TrueDepth notch by using a smaller camera, TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo told China-based tech site MyDrivers. It'll go a step further in 2021 and remove the notch completely, a Credit Suisse analyst added.

The 2020 iPhones are set to see "significant changes" aside from the rumored one to the notched display. Apple will reportedly introduce its first 5G phone, add 3D sensing via the rear camera, include a full-screen Touch ID and use OLED screens.

iPhone 11 design leaks keep the notch, with the big change coming in the form of a three-lens camera bump on the back. It's also rumored that Apple will ditch Face ID but only for China to help reduce the price of the iPhone. 

Apple didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

Originally published July 11 at 5:24 a.m. PT.
Update, 6:08 a.m.: Adds background details.