Metalenz unveils under-display Polar ID, no punch-hole needed

Metalenz has introduced Polar ID, a new under-display facial recognition technology designed for smartphones. The company plans to showcase a functional smartphone supporting this system at SID Display Week 2026. This exhibition marks the first public demonstration of the technology in a working device.

Polar ID integrates photodiodes directly into the display panel alongside a polarizing filter. The system rotates polarization 360 degrees to determine the light polarization signature of a user's face. This process allows the device to segment an image and verify identity without a dedicated camera punch-hole. The design eliminates the need for a notch or hole-punch in the screen.

The technology aims to prevent spoofing attempts using 2D images or 3D masks. Metalenz claims the system works without limitations in low light conditions, similar to Apple Face ID. The underlying Polar 3D engine can also generate relightable selfies and realistic avatars on the device from a single image capture. These capabilities rely on the unique polarization data captured by the under-display sensors.

Rumors suggest that Polar ID could be integrated into the Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra. Metalenz has not confirmed whether the technology will enter production or which specific devices will use it. Independent security tests are necessary to verify if Polar ID matches the security standards of existing face unlock systems. Manufacturer claims regarding security performance should be viewed with caution until verified by third parties.