Apple likely launching 3 iPhones and 2 iPads with Face ID this year

Apple is very likely to include Face ID in three new iPhone and two new iPad models that will launch late in Q3 2018, supply chain sources told DigiTimes.

Manufacturers of vertical cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) components such as GaAs foundry houses, epi wafer makers, as well as LED suppliers and distributors are reportedly expecting Apple to contribute significantly to market revenues through 2018, while Win Semiconductors has reportedly received robust orders from Apple. Chroma ATE, which makes 3D sensor component testing systems, reported June revenues of NT$2.22 billion (US$73 million) in June, 90 percent higher than the previous year, as part of a quarterly high revenue for Q2 of NT$5.63 billion ($180 million).

Forbes reports that the new iPhones will be the iPhone X Plus, the upgraded iPhone X, and a less-expensive LCD iPhone that replaces the iPhone 8.

Increasing the availability of Face ID could provide Apple with a competitive advantage over Android-based smartphones and tablets. The OPPO Find X was released in June with 3D facial recognition algorithms from Megvii, and is touted as the first Android device with 3D structured light technology.

Reports have also suggested that both Apple and Samsung are working toward the eventual integration of ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensors.

Apple recently registered “Face ID” as a trademark.

Article Topics

Apple  |  biometrics  |  Face ID  |  facial recognition  |  mobile device