Report: iPhone 14 models might have used a patented light-folding projector to minimize the size of the notch.

 

According to a story that was based on a patent application Apple submitted to the US Patent & Trademark Office, the iPhone 14 series models may have used a light-folded projector to minimize the notch (USPTO). It has been widely believed that the non-pro models may receive a smaller notch while the professional ones will flaunt a hole-punch display with a pill-shaped cutout. According to the article, the patent does not specifically state which models would receive this technology, but it is assumed that all models of the iPhone 14 series will support it.

According to a USPTO patent cited by Patently Apple, it discusses a technology that consists of a camera, an IR light emitter, and a "light folding element" in addition to other parts. This component is rumored to have the ability to refocus IR light to help minimize component footprint and provide more display space on the phone.

The light folding element can offer "greater freedom for arranging the IR light emitter with relation to the other components such as the IR detector and front-facing camera," according to the patent. It is not necessary to install the IR light emitter at a certain location because the IR light folding element can alter the IR light's transmission direction. Now, the imaging and sensing components might be "placed at a location with less-constrained space, employ the light folding element to project the IR light in a specific direction," minimize the total size of the imaging and sensing components, and reduce the size of a notch. It sounds similar to the technology used in smartphone zoom cameras in the Periscope manner.

Report: Hole-Punch Display Design on iPhone 14 Pro Models

The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are rumored to include a pill-shaped hole-punch cutout. The iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Max, which are not professional models, are rumored to sport a lower notch. Apple has not yet confirmed the creation of these models, but a number of web reports have suggested that the iPhone 14 series would include a new design. In one instance, pictures of the iPhone model front panels were leaked.

A dummy model of the rumored iPhone 14 Pro with the claimed pill-shaped hole-punch design has just surfaced online. According to rumors, the iPhone 14 Pro will have a 6.06-inch display, while the iPhone 14 Pro Max will have a 6.7-inch display. On September 7, Apple will introduce the iPhone 14 series. Additionally anticipated at the event are the introductions of the Apple Watch Series 8 models, iOS 16, and watchOS 9. All of the launch-related rumors are detailed in our article.