Apple iPhone, iPad Models With Face ID Confirmed By 3D Sensor Suppliers

Supply chain sources have revealed that Apple’s Taiwan-based suppliers are anticipating the Cupertino giant’s strong demand for more 3D sensors as it sets to mass incorporate Face ID into upcoming iPhones and iPads.

The sources told Digitimes on Monday that Taiwanese suppliers are optimistic about bright shipment prospects for the second half because of Apple’s robust demand for 3D sensors that will be used in powering the facial recognition technology of upcoming portable devices.

The sources also confirmed that Tim Cook’s company is currently preparing three new iPhone models and two new iPad models with Face ID. All devices are reportedly scheduled for release in the third quarter. It’s safe to assume that they will be unveiled at Apple’s annual September event for new hardware.

Among the companies that will benefit from Apple’s 3D sensor orders is leading GaAs wafer foundry house Win Semiconductors, who just landed orders for processing VCSEL components. The orders are reportedly sufficient enough to support shipments throughout the rest of the year.

Another firm that will benefit from Apple’s move to include Face ID in upcoming iPhones and iPads is Chroma ATE. The company is a specialist in providing automated and precision test and measurement equipment and it is tasked to come up with 3D sensor components testing systems for this year.

Apple has long been rumored to introduce new smartphones and tablets with Face ID technology this year. The tech giant is expected to debut three iPhones this fall: a 5.8-inch OLED model, another 6.5-inch OLED model and a 6.1-inch LCD variant. All three are believed to sport thin bezels and a notched design to accommodate the TrueDepth camera system, according to 9To5Mac.

Meanwhile, analyst and notable Apple leaker Ming-Chi Kuo predicted last year that the Cupertino giant will launch a redesigned 12.9-inch iPad Pro and an 11-inch iPad Pro this year. The upcoming tablets are said to feature dramatic changes, such as the removal of the physical Home button and the inclusion of Face ID.