Chinese Smartphone Makers Developing Next-Gen Phones with Under-Display 3D Face Recognition
Several Chinese smartphone manufacturers are reportedly working on new models that combine under-display front cameras with advanced 3D facial recognition technology — a feature not yet available in commercial smartphones.
Next-Level Biometric Innovation
According to industry insider Digital Chat Station, internal tests are underway on Android devices that aim to support 3D facial scanning without a visible camera module on the front screen. This move could position these devices as strong competitors to Apple’s Face ID, which remains one of the few widely used 3D face recognition systems.
While no specific brands or models were confirmed, this development fits recent trends among Chinese brands like ZTE and Honor, which have separately explored 3D sensing and under-display camera tech.
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Honor’s Magic 7 Pro is one of the few Android phones currently offering 3D face recognition.
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ZTE’s nubia Z70S Ultra and other models feature under-display selfie cameras but lack 3D face scanning.
However, a smartphone that merges these two advanced technologies in one device has yet to be launched.
Overcoming Technical Challenges
Integrating 3D face recognition under the display is complex. These systems rely on infrared sensors and structured light projection, which are difficult to conceal beneath a screen without affecting performance.
Moreover, under-display selfie cameras have traditionally lagged behind standard front cameras in image quality. It remains to be seen how manufacturers will overcome these hurdles to deliver a seamless user experience.