Photos show alleged cover glass, sensor notch for Apple's 'iPhone 8'

The glass — seen in photos originally posted to China's Weibo — includes extremely slim bezels, and a "notch" for the earpiece and surrounding sensors. While the part's authenticity is uncertain, the notch and bezels have been seen in several other recent leaks, most notably code from Apple's own HomePod firmware.

Sensors may include a new front-facing camera, capable of 4K video at 60 frames per second, and most importantly a new 3D facial recognition system likely to replace Touch ID. The technology may even be able to recognize people from unusual angles such as resting on a table, and unlock a phone in less than a second.

The "iPhone 8" has long been rumored as getting 3D facial recognition, but until very recently it was thought that Apple would still attempt to include Touch ID. Without a physical home button, it was believed Apple would embed a fingerprint sensor in the screen, in the power button, or on the rear, as with some Android phones like Samsung's Galaxy S8.

Apple could ship the "iPhone 8" as soon as next month, but rumored production issues may delay a launch until October.