Apple is internally prototyping a significantly larger smartphone display, pushing the boundaries of iPhone screen size for its highly anticipated 20th anniversary flagship expected in 2027.
According to reliable Chinese leaker Digital Chat Station, Apple is testing a display that measures approximately 6.96 inches diagonally. If it enters production, the company would likely market it as a full 7-inch panel for the top-tier iPhone 20 Pro Max. The aspect ratio remains consistent with the current iPhone 17 Pro Max, suggesting the increase comes primarily from reduced bezels and possibly advanced curved-edge technology rather than a drastic redesign of the screen proportions.
This development aligns with earlier reports from Bloomberg News indicating that Apple has been ramping up work on multiple size options for the commemorative 20th anniversary iPhone. Rumors have consistently pointed to a near-borderless design featuring micro-curved OLED panels and “liquid glass” edges for an immersive, almost seamless visual experience.
Context on iPhone Screen Evolution
Apple has been gradually increasing the size of its premium iPhones in recent years:
• The iPhone 16 Pro series (2024) introduced 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch displays, up from 6.1 and 6.7 inches on the prior generation, thanks to slimmer bezels.
• The upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models are expected to retain the same dimensions as the current 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch lineup.
The potential jump to a 7-inch display for the 2027 model would represent the largest iPhone screen ever, positioning it firmly in phablet territory and emphasizing the anniversary device as a premium, forward-looking showcase of Apple’s display technology.
Whether this prototype ultimately makes it into the final iPhone 20 Pro Max remains uncertain, as Apple frequently tests multiple configurations before committing to production. However, the rumor marks the first concrete report of a screen size increase specifically tied to the anniversary edition.
MacDailyNews Take: Bring it on!
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Bigger than the current ProMax? No thanks. Already too big and too heavy. Bigger screen means it no longer fits into shirt pockets. Nope.
Primarily why I’m still using an iPhone 8. I don’t need an iPad.
Apple will have “ultra” iPhone with short fat screen (folded) and huge 20th anniversary iPhone that’s like tall iPad mini, both too expensive. Apple should create a second 20th model “for the rest of us,” modeled after original iPhone, as envisioned by Steve Jobs in 2007. The ultimate evolution of one-handed, easily pocketable, light-weight, and affordable iPhone with TouchID on Home Button. Single back camera and support for Apple Intelligence, starting at $500 if possible. Use design (size and shape) of last iPhone SE, except stretch screen from 4.7 to 5 inches, call it iPhone Classic. There seems to be demand for nostalgia recently.
Yes! The Home button is SORELY MISSED.
TouchID remains by far the best for seamless ApplePay transactions.
You know that Apple is going to keep using old chassis designs for the SE, but maybe they could bulge the back so it was curved, which would feel more comfortable in the hand like the original iPhones and allow for additional internal battery.
The advantage of keeping the back identical is to allow cases (and other accessories) going back to iPhone 7 to fit. But an A-chip that supports Apple Intelligence probably needs bigger battery, so curving the back would be a good fix that adds more nostalgia value. Make bottom area of back casing black plastic too 😉 Changing screen OLED (instead of LCD) could also free up more internal space. And if they use camera from 17e, it’ll be a whole new “iPhone Classic” 😎 But can’t overdo it or it’ll end up costing as much as the “e” phone.
Seriously? When has Apple ever cared about case compatibility?