Recent reports suggest Apple's vision of seamless glass devices could materialize sooner than expected, with both an all-glass Apple Watch and a radically redesigned 20th anniversary iPhone potentially sharing the spotlight in 2027.
According to Chinese leaker Instant Digital, Apple may introduce an Apple Watch with a touch-interactive, fully-glass frame before launching an all-glass iPhone. In theory, the device could blur the boundaries between screen and enclosure, creating a truly seamless appearance.
The idea isn't entirely speculative. Apple has filed patents describing wearable devices with glass enclosures and integrated touch zones, suggesting serious research in this direction.
Meanwhile, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports Apple plans to launch a "mostly glass, curved iPhone without any cutouts in the display" later in 2027 to commemorate the iPhone's 20th anniversary. Korean media adds that this device could feature "four-edge bending" display technology that curves around all sides.
Both devices would face significant engineering challenges. For the Watch, Apple would need to develop ultra-durable glass that withstands daily wear while maintaining precise touch response. The same goes for the 20th anniversary iPhone, which would also require under-display sensors and cameras to achieve its all-screen, borderless aesthetic.
If Apple can overcome these hurdles, we could see the beginning of Jony Ive's long-envisioned all-glass device future – with the Watch potentially serving as the first practical execution, perhaps in early 2027, before the technology expands to Apple's flagship product later in the fall.
