Apple‘s highly anticipated foldable iPhone will likely feature side-button Touch ID instead of under-screen fingerprint technology, according to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. This dismisses recent market rumors about ultrasonic fingerprint sensors in the 2026 device.
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Kuo Stands by Original Prediction
In a recent Twitter post, Kuo reinforced his March forecast about the foldable iPhone’s authentication method. He stated that Luxshare ICT will supply the side-button Touch ID module for Apple’s first foldable device, dismissing under-display sensor rumors.
Expected Foldable iPhone Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Inner Display | ~7.8 inches |
| Outer Display | ~5.5 inches |
| Price Range | $2,000 – $2,500 |
| Authentication | Side-button Touch ID |
| Camera Setup | Dual rear lens |
Why Side-Button Touch ID Makes Sense
Apple has already implemented side-button Touch ID successfully in iPad Air and iPad mini devices. For the foldable iPhone, this choice serves practical purposes:
- Space optimization in the folded design
- Cost efficiency compared to under-screen technology
- Proven reliability from existing iPad implementations
Kuo suggests Apple will skip Face ID authentication to maximize internal space within the compact folded form factor.
Production Timeline Confirmed
Multiple analysts agree on the foldable iPhone timeline:
- Mass production: Second half of 2026
- Launch window: Fall 2026
- Design style: Book-style foldable format
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman also supports this timeline, expecting a fall 2026 launch following Apple’s traditional seasonal release pattern.
Market Impact and Competition
Apple’s foldable iPhone enters a mature market dominated by Samsung’s Galaxy Fold series. The premium pricing between $2,000-$2,500 positions it against established competitors while maintaining Apple’s luxury brand positioning.
The side-button Touch ID approach could differentiate Apple’s offering from competitors who primarily use under-screen fingerprint technology.
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Apple continues refining foldable technology while maintaining its signature design philosophy and user experience standards.
FAQs
When will Apple release its first foldable iPhone?
Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to launch in fall 2026 with mass production starting mid-2026.
How much will the foldable iPhone cost?
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts pricing between $2,000-$2,500 for Apple’s first foldable device.
