Report: all four iPhone 16 models to feature thinner bezels

2024-03-21

A while back we saw 3D renders of the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max, which added some context to earlier reports that Apple will increase the screen sizes to 6.27” and 6.85”, up from 6.1” and 6.7”. As a consequence, the phones will be larger, but not as large as they might have been.

Korean publication Sisa Journal-E quotes industry insiders who reveal that Apple has developed a “Border Reduction Structure” (or BRS), which does what it says on the tin – it makes the bezels smaller.

The iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max will measure 149.6 x 71.45 x 8.25mm and 163 x 77.58 x 8.25mm, respectively, which is around 3mm taller and 1mm wider than the outgoing iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max.

It’s not just the Pros, however, all four models will feature displays with BRS. That said, based on currently available information, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will have the same screen dimensions as their predecessors (and the refresh rate will remain at 60Hz, 120Hz is an upgrade slated for the iPhone 17 generation).

Interestingly, heat dissipation proved to be an issue for bezel reduction. Apple found a simple solution that will be adopted by its three display suppliers: Samsung Display, LG Display and BOE.

“Companies do not seem to view BRS technology as a very difficult technology,” claims one insider. However, as mass production kicks off, Cupertino may change the allocations of production volumes between companies if one of them hits a snag.

Source (in Korean) | Via