Introduction

The under-display camera (UDC) promises a true full-screen smartphone—no notch, no hole-punch, just an uninterrupted display. But is this innovation revolutionary or just a gimmick?

In this deep dive, we’ll cover:
✔ How under-display cameras work
✔ Pros & cons of UDC phones
✔ Best under-display camera phones (2024)
✔ Is the tech ready for mainstream use?

Let’s uncover the truth!

1. How Does an Under-Display Camera Work?

UDC tech hides the front camera beneath the screen using two key methods:

🔹 Pixel Redistribution (ZTE’s Approach)

  • The screen area above the camera has larger, spaced-out pixels.

  • Light passes through gaps to reach the camera.

  • Software enhances image quality post-processing.

🔹 Transparent Display Layers (Samsung’s Approach)

  • Uses a low-resolution OLED layer over the camera.

  • The display becomes partially transparent when the camera activates.

2. Pros of Under-Display Cameras

✅ True Full-Screen Experience

  • No notch, no hole-punch—just pure screen.

  • Ideal for gaming, movies, and multitasking.

✅ Futuristic Design

  • Looks sleek and premium (No visible camera cutouts).

✅ Improved Durability

  • No mechanical pop-up parts (Unlike pop-up cameras).

3. Cons of Under-Display Cameras

❌ Compromised Selfie Quality

  • Images often look hazy or soft due to screen interference.

  • Low-light performance worse than punch-hole cameras.

❌ Visible Screen Pixelation

  • The camera area may show a slight “grid” effect when off.

❌ Limited Adoption

  • Only a few brands (ZTE, Samsung, Xiaomi) use UDC tech.

4. Best Under-Display Camera Phones (2024)

1. ZTE Axon 40 Ultra (Best Overall UDC Phone)

  • 6.8″ AMOLED, 120Hz, no visible camera

  • 16MP under-display selfie cam (Improved over Axon 30)

  • Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, 65W charging
    💰 Price: $799

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 (UDC in Foldables)

  • 4MP under-display camera (Mainly for video calls)

  • Better hidden than Z Fold 4
    💰 Price: $1,799

3. Xiaomi Mi Mix 4 (Discontinued but Innovative)

  • 20MP under-display selfie camera

  • Ceramic body, Snapdragon 888+
    💰 Last Price: ~$899 (Check resellers)

5. Under-Display Camera vs. Punch-Hole: Which is Better?

Feature Under-Display Camera Punch-Hole Camera
Display True full-screen Small cutout
Selfie Quality Mediocre Excellent
Durability High (No moving parts) Moderate
Cost Expensive Affordable

Verdict:

  • For selfie lovers → Punch-hole (Better photos).

  • For screen purists → UDC (Immersive display).

6. Is the Under-Display Camera a Gimmick?

👍 Revolution If…

  • Image quality improves (Next-gen UDC 2.0 in development).

  • More brands adopt it (Apple, OnePlus, etc.).

👎 Gimmick If…

  • Selfies stay mediocre (Most users prioritize camera quality).

  • High cost doesn’t justify benefits.

7. What’s Next for Under-Display Cameras?

  • Samsung & Apple are rumored to be working on UDC iPhones & Galaxies.

  • Periscope UDC (Zoom selfies) could be a future innovation.

FAQs: Under-Display Camera Phones

Q1: Does the under-display camera affect screen quality?

Slightly—some pixelation is visible if you look closely.

Q2: Can you disable the under-display camera?

No, but it only activates when in use.

Q3: Will iPhone 16 have an under-display camera?

Rumors suggest iPhone 17 Pro might debut UDC tech.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy a UDC Phone?

  • Buy if: You hate notches & rarely take selfies.

  • Avoid if: You need great front camera quality.