Apple Foldable iPhone: Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone is slowly starting to take shape—at least in the world of leaks and whispers. According to a trusted tipster, the device will include a futuristic under-screen front camera, but there’s a major twist: it may not support full Face ID functionality due to missing TrueDepth components.

If this latest leak proves accurate, Apple could be making a bold move that might ruffle a few feathers in the iOS fan base. Here’s everything we know so far.

Apple Foldable iPhone Might Ditch Face ID for Touch ID – Here’s What the Latest Leak Reveals

Under-Screen Camera Is In, But Where’s Face ID?

Renowned tipster Digital Chat Station, posting on Weibo, claims that Apple’s foldable iPhone will sport an under-display front-facing camera, giving the device a sleek, uninterrupted screen. However, not all is perfect in foldable paradise.

The same source suggests that Apple will not be integrating the full suite of TrueDepth sensors—the core hardware responsible for powering Face ID. That means no infrared scanner, no dot projector, and possibly no full Face ID as we know it.

Why Might Apple Skip Face ID on the Foldable iPhone?

While there’s no official reason yet, several possibilities are floating around:

Design Challenges: Embedding Face ID’s complex sensor array beneath a foldable OLED panel without sacrificing accuracy or consistency could be extremely difficult.
Space Constraints: Foldable devices need to be as thin and lightweight as possible, leaving limited space for bulky internal hardware like the TrueDepth module.
Display Interference: Sensors like those used in Face ID may not function properly beneath a flexible screen, potentially compromising security and user experience.

Apple’s likely decision to skip Face ID may also be tied to their commitment to clean design aesthetics—especially with the foldable expected to have a book-style form factor and a 4:3 aspect ratio, possibly to align with iPad UI elements.

What’s the Alternative? Touch ID Might Be Back

If Face ID is out, what’s in? The tipster speculates that Apple could opt for a side-mounted Touch ID sensor, similar to what we’ve seen in iPad Air and iPad 10th Gen. It’s not quite as futuristic as facial recognition, but it’s still fast, reliable, and secure.

This would mark a surprising return of fingerprint biometrics to iPhones after years of Apple going all-in on Face ID since the iPhone X.

$2,000+ Without Face ID? Users Might Not Be Happy

Here’s the kicker—Apple’s first foldable iPhone is expected to launch at a premium price point between $2,000 and $2,500. With that kind of pricing, some users might expect the full Apple experience, including Face ID.

Skipping one of Apple’s signature features could be a deal-breaker for some, unless the company introduces a new form of enhanced Touch ID or an innovative workaround.

Built for Durability: Liquid Metal Hinge Incoming

On a more positive note, Apple is also rumored to be using a liquid metal hinge mechanism to increase the foldable iPhone’s durability and reduce the crease visibility—two of the biggest concerns in current foldable devices.

That move could help justify the hefty price tag and give Apple a distinct edge over Android competitors.

When Can We Expect the Foldable iPhone?

Apple is reportedly targeting a 2026 launch window, meaning we’re still at least a year away from seeing this ambitious device in action. Until then, take every leak with a grain of salt—but one thing is clear: Apple is working hard to make a serious impact in the foldable space.

The idea of a Face ID-less foldable iPhone may sound shocking to some, but it highlights the engineering challenges involved in merging cutting-edge biometrics with next-gen displays. Whether Apple ultimately delivers Touch ID, a redesigned Face ID, or something entirely new, one thing’s certain—expectations are sky-high.

Stay tuned as more leaks and details continue to unfold.