Apple is on the verge of reintroducing Touch ID to a flagship iPhone, a feature that has been absent since the launch of Face ID with the iPhone X in 2017. However, this revival does not involve the traditional Home button.
Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that the upcoming foldable iPhone will forego Face ID in favor of Touch ID, integrated into the side button. This design echoes the current Touch ID configuration found in the iPad Air and iPad mini models, and the decision seems to stem from space limitations rather than any sentimentality for the old fingerprint sensor.
Set to debut in 2026, this innovative foldable device is anticipated to feature a book-style design with a 5.5-inch outer display and a larger 7.8-inch inner screen once unfolded. Apple aims for a remarkable slim profile of 4.5 to 4.8mm when opened, which necessitates the removal of Face ID’s bulky sensor systems.
Additional features speculated for the device include a titanium chassis with liquid metal hinges, dual 48-megapixel rear cameras, and high-density battery cells to enhance power efficiency. Notably, the design is expected to be virtually crease-free, aided by a special metal plate designed to distribute bending stress.
Mass production is slated for the latter half of 2026, with a price range from $1,800 to $2,500, potentially positioning it as Apple’s priciest iPhone yet. The iPhone 8 and 8 Plus were the last flagship models to include Touch ID, while the third-generation iPhone SE was the final model overall to feature this technology before its discontinuation in early 2025.
As for the iPhone 17 Pro series, which is just a couple of months away, there are already numerous rumors detailing anticipated design changes. Reports indicate that the iPhone 17 Pro models will feature an aluminum frame, contrasting with the titanium frames seen in previous models.
Furthermore, the foldable iPhone’s display sizes have gained support from various sources, solidifying expectations. In addition to hardware advancements, Apple has also launched AppleCare One, a new subscription service allowing coverage for multiple devices in one plan, beginning at $19.99 per month.
Apple continues to refine its iOS platform, with recent beta versions showcasing adjustments to the Liquid Glass design and the introduction of new features, indicating a robust pipeline of innovations ahead.
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